Journeys in Balochistan,Afghanistan the Panjab, & Kalat

NARRATIVE

OF VARIOUS JOURNEYS IN

BALOCHISTAN, AFGHANISTAN,

AND THE PANJAB.

Lmdon: PMted by 9 . 8 J. Bentby, WiLon, .ad Rq, Buqoz H w u , Bba h e .

NARRATIVE

OF VARIOUS J O U R N E Y S

BALOCHISTAN, AFGHANISTAN,

TO WHICII IS ADDED,

AN ACCOUNT OF THE INSURRECTION AT K A L ~ T , AND A MEMOIR ON EASTERN BALOCHISTAN.

BY CHARLES MASSON, E ~ Q .

ILLUBTRATRD WITH A LARGE MAP AND NUMEROUS ENGRAVINGS.

IN F O U R VOLUMES.

VOL. 111.

LONDON:

RICHARD BENTLEY, NEW BURLINGTON STREET.

WubIi.@er fn CBrBfnarg ta Ber flaj~elfg. 1844.

CONTENTS

T H E T H I R D VOLUME.

CHAPTER I. PAOR

Saiyad Kernmat Ali. - His adventure. -The Nawab JdbC Khh's services.-Lieutenant Conolly.--Gaiyad Maihin's reward.- Ressona for it.--Qovernment proposal to Saiyad Kernmat AIL-Hi communications with Captain Wade. - Hie recommendation. - Severity of the winter.-Indications of spring.-General thaw.- Warm and cold mow.- Destruction of houses. - Nazzar Bdbb Adam.-Vernal flowem- Water-fowl.- Gnats.- Chikn'.- Ra- whh.4welling of River.-Dost Mdhomed KhWs order.-Wag- gish remark.- Earthquakes,-The 8hakirfa.-The ArghawBn.-Id Khkbb.-Abdul %mad.-His arrival at KBba1.-His seizure.- His release and employment.-His power.-Colonel Stoddart.- Thunder showem.-winds.-Progre~~of the -n.-Early vege- tables. Leiure for inquiry.-Dost Maomed Khb's celebrity.- His appearance at Ohazni.-His popularity with the people-i- nions of higher claeaes. 1

CHAPTER 11.

Sir&& Wh.-Doat Mdhomed Khrln$ mother.-Her charms and attractione.-Dost M+med Khb's neglected education.- Fatl Khb's revenge of his father's death.-His successes and eleva- tion.-Youth of Doet Mdhomed KhBn.-Mbhomed Azem KhBn.- The Vazir's jealousy and remark.-Dost Mdhomed KhBn's perfidy. --Seehe refuge in the royal camp.-Mdhomed Azem Khan pacified.

CONTENTS.

PAGE

Dost ;\.liliomcd Khdn's acquaintance with Jai Singh.-Laxity of Fati Khf in .4a i Singh's flight to PeshPwcr.-Fnti Klriin's policy.- Tkjiks of the Kohistin.-Their condition.-Dost Mbhomed K h h appointed to the Kohisth-His proceedings.-Khwoja Khh j f in- veigled and slnin.4laughter of Koh Dkman chiefs.--Treatment of robber chiefs.-Improved stnte of Keh Daman.-Fati Khh ' s ad- vance upon Taghow.-Fati KhPn's caution.-Recovery of Kbhmir. -The Vazir's interview with Ranjit Singh.-Atak sold to Ranjit Singh.-Battle of Haidaro.-Dost Mghomed Khan's gallantry.- Fati Khan's military talent.-His suspicious conduct.-Activity of his enemies.-Expedition projected.-Fati Khh ' s return to KBbal. -His triumph over his enemies.-March to Her&.-Haji K h h ' s early career.-Friendship with Dost Miihomed Khan.-Relieves his nccessities.P-izure of Firoz Din.-Dost Mihomed Khan's crimi- nal conduct.-Flight to Kbshmir.--Shiihzadn Khnr$n.-His charac - tcr.-His jenlousy of Fnti Khan.-Fatl Khan's supposed views.- Popular c o q j e c t ~ c s . 4 h l h z l d a Kimrfin prompted to action.-His sister's reproach. - The Vazir's action with Kqjar. - His wound and retreat.-Fati Ali Shlh's apprehension and remark.-State of AfghAnistAn.-Fati Khan's seizure the signal for the diasolrition of the monarchy.-Fhr Dil Khan made prisoner by Shahzbda Kbm- ran.-Made mir of the BPrak Zai tribe.-Escapes to Andili.-Hty'i Khan declines the Shahzlda's offers.-Joins Fhr Dil Khan.--Sons of SirafrPz Khan.-List and disposition of then]. . 17

CHAPTER 111.

Kbmfin's march to KAba1.-Dost Mdhomed K h W s release.- Protesta against Mahomed Azem Khan's inactive views.-Volun- teem to oppose Khrh.-Advances upon Kfibd.-Att& Mbhomed Khan.-Made MhkhtahC Dowlah.-Shlh Wali KhBn.-Shir Mb- homed Khh.-Replaced by Wafader Khan.-Fcigns paralysis. - Sudden cure.--Intrigues with the Shnf factions.-Elevates Shah S Q i h a1 MGlkh.-Recovers KBahmir.4upporta Prince Kaiear.- Slain at Pes1ibwer.-Atti Mdhomed Khan invites Shfih 81ijhh a1 Mhlkh. - Confines him. - Kgmran's revenge. - Att5 MBhomed Khfin's communication with Doet Mahomod Kh&n.-His treachery. -Is blinded.-Sudden fall.--Siege of Bdlla Hiestir.-Escape of Prince Jeh%nghir.-Prepamtiom at Her&.--Approach of Mihomed Azem KhBn.-Dost Mdhomed Khlln's discontent.-Proclaims 861-

CONTENTS. vii

PAOE

t in Ali king.-Herst anny marches to Krlndal1C.-Thence to C h a w Ad&.-Precipitate r e t rea t . -bna for.-Krlndahir lost to Shah MMbhmbd.-Mdhomed Azem K h h invites Shah S b j a a1 Mlilkh.-Conrest with Shrlh Sbjiih a1 Mblkh.-Aylib Shrlh made king.-Arrangements.-March upon 8hllrarpGr.-Dost Mdhomed Khan again proclaims Sbltan A1i.-Return of Mdhomed Azem Khh.-Dimmion. -Doat Mdhomed Khh's propossl to Sdltiln Ali.-Mdhomed Azem Khrln'e pmpoaal to ShAh A y l i b . 4 b l t h A1I etrsngled.4hilh SbjAh a1 Mblkh's m y dispersed.-Ingenuity of the Bind nmlrs.-Mbhomed Azem Khh ' s preaence of mind.-In- trigues in his camp.-Evil intentions of Doet Mdhomed KhAn and Bhir Dil K h h . - Mdhomed Azem Khh ' s retreat. - Expedition against the Sikhs.-Ranjit S i ih ' s meamues.-His overturea to the chi& bf Peshswex-Flight of Jai 6ingh.-Doet MBhomed KhAn proffers his services to Baqjit 8ingh.-Mbhomed Azem K h h de- ceived by YBr Mdhomed Khh.-Doet Mdhomed KhAn's design on his treasure.-Mbhomed Azem KhBn's ineeo1ution.-Panic and dis- persal of his army.-Baqjit Gigh occupies Peeh4wcr.-Divides Pe- shawer between Dost Mihomed K h h and Yh Mdhomed Khh.- Death of Mdhomed Azem Khan.-His character.-Habib Ulah Khh.-MBhomed Azem Khlln's dying recommendation and request. -Fbr Dil Khan reach= Krlba1.-His plans.-Ayiib Shrlh's infa- tuation.-Pbr Dil Khh ' s interview with A$b Shah.-Opposition of ShahzAda Iwzae1.-Is slain.-Deposition of Ayiib &ah.--Retires to Lahow.-Jab& Khan.-His career.-Defeated in Kbshmir.- Oovernor of the Qhilji8.-His cirility to Europeans.-Slighted by Habib mah K h h . - Dost Mdhomed Khiln's attempts. - Habib mah K h b ' s folly.-Defection of his chiefs.-Investment of Bdna Hi&. 39

CHAPTER IV.

The K h d a h b sirdrlr's march to the aid of Habib Ulah Khan.- Dost Mdhomed K h h retires.--8eizure of Habib Ulah Khh.-Dost Mdhomed KMn aeaerta himeelf his avenger.--8ad state of Kaba1.- Favourable dispositions to Doart Mdhomed Khfln.-The K h d a h C m r d h desirous to secure and blind him.-Saved by Hgji KhBn.- New arrangemen&--Hrlji Khh ' s freak.-Engages in Dcst Md- homed Khrln's service.46ltAn Mfihomed KhAn's errors.-His lax goverqment.-Besieged by Doet Mdhomed Khh.-Retires to Pe- sh&wer.-Ahmed Shhh.-His pretensions.-His s u c c e ~ ~ with the

viii CONTENTS.

PAGE

Y d f Zaii.--Offend8 the Peshdwer sirdim.-Is betrayed by them. -New claims of Dost Mghomed Khan's brothers-Reduction of Z6rmat.-Return to Kabal, and welcome.Saiyad Ahmed Shhilh's movements.-Dost Mdhomed Khan's assistance to his Peshdwer brothers.-Extravnganws of Habfb Ulah Khh-His followers se- duced by Dost Mdhomed Khan.-Discomfiture of the Newhb Jab& nib.-March of Dost Mdhomed KhBn to Taghow.-His appre- hensions of MBzdah.-Death of Mkz6lah.-Designs of Je1hhbdd.- D*,t;.ctinn in Doct \T:lhnmc~d Khan'= army.-.lrrangcmcnts.-Oaths. - K c a u x ~ ~ p t ~ o ~ ~ I J ~ t l ~ c ( i l ~ i : j i pct\.cr~~~>~cr~t.-ILe~nnrL on Dout M& homed K h h ' s cliurirctcr.-IIia talc.nts for business.-His adminis- tration.-Projects of Shah Sujah-nl-hlulkh.-Scntiments of the peo- ple.--Of DO& Mdhomed Khb.-Proposal to m u m e royalty re- jected.--Arrival of mission from K6ndb.-Visit of M u AlAm Khan.-Views on B6jor.-Rumoura and reports. . 68

CHAPTER V.

Researches. -Mound -Discoveries. - TGz-leaf manuscripts. - Images. - Conjectures. - Antiquity of manuscripts. -Alarm of friends.-Intercourse with Mihomed Akbar Khan.-His sensible observations.-Anecdote of Mr. Moorcroft.-Dr. Gerard's sculpture. -Excursions.-Return of Hgji Khiin.-His reception.-Hgji Kl~iln's visit to KGnd6z.-Hospitality of Mir Mdhomed Mordd Beg.-Re- volt in Bddakshb.--;HILji Khb's Alima.-Treaty with Mihomed Morld Beg.-Rghmatdah Beg's replies.-Disposal of D6h Zanghl captives.-Rbhmatdah Beg's parting remark.-Release of Mir Ya- dbbaksli's relatives.-Hqi Khb's hints to them.-Hbji Khb'a pro- jects.-Samander Khh-Dost Mdhomed Kllb's discretion.-Hgji Khan's final determination.-Dost Mdhomed Khan's reproaches.- Hi j i KhWs retort.-Entertainment of elchis and chiefs.-Theft.- Dost Mdhomed KhBn's sarcastic counsel.-Hgji Khan discharges his followers.-His imputed design.-Hhdn Khan.-Hqi Khan's remark.-Movements of Mir Mihomed Mordd Beg.-Fate of Md- homed Ali Beg.-Abd6lah K h b . . 92

CHAPTER VI.

Tour in Koh Dlman, &.-Nbnachi.-Mim Jdfar Khh-Kotd Kers Khba.-Turnuli.-Killa Kohchih-Nhir M u Ali KhBn.- His conversation and travels.-Accident.-Shakr Dare.-8erai.-

CONTENTS. ix

PACE

Biz$di.-Bedak.-KBh Dam.-Zirgarh-Cave.-TalGk of Fer- zah.--Sekandar Shah.-Persian inscription.-Cescede.-Anriculas. -Kills %&hi.-Idif.-Delightful view.-Ziht H k m t Eshb.- Azdh6.- Orchards.-T816k of Istrilif. -Mbbomed Shilh Khb.- His capture of Kim.-His death.-Bolend Khh-His execution. -Istargitch.-Approach to Chb5klr.-Town of Chh1Br.-Trade. -Destruction of Gdrkha battalion.-H6pib.-Thtam Dare. - Shesh BG jeh.-Application.-Octcgenarian invalid.-T8&.-Dost Niihomed Khan's eeverity.-Ali Khan.-His recommendations to his raiyats.-Canals.-River of Thtam Darn.-Conflict and surren- der of Doat Mihomed K h h . - S h l t h Singh's garden.-History of Sultiin Singh. - His rise.-Plot of Mina Imam Verdi.-Sultlin Singh's adroitness.-Habm Ulah KhAn's measures.-Shlth Singh's s t a t e . -Aim his ancient employer.-Malek Is& KhAn's propoeal.- 861th Singh swallows poieon.Jiih Nimiihi.-Tope Dam.-Simpli- city. -Nekkak Perids. - Compass. - Fugitive of Hhpih. - S& YCBn.-Ziirat Denvish.-Killa Kh6rbiin.-Inhabitants of ChCi- kC.-Shhak.-Sanjit Dam.-Mzihomed Jhfar Kh&n.-Kills Mir Sniyad Khan.-Kabal doctor.---Objects of excursion.-Killa Bolend. -Plain of B6grh.-Return.-Baloch Khh-Coins.-Apprehen- sions of people.-Reports.-Killa Mhsa Kh$n.-Thtarang ZC.- KUhh.-Tope.-ChCni Khans.-Killa RajpGt.-Kotal MBm6 Kh6t6n. - Killa Iltsfst K h b . - Kotal PBh Minlr.-Return .to KBbaL 109

CHAPTER VII.

Collections of wins. - Jealousy.- Importance of discoveries. - Antiques.-Site of %h.-Hill ranges.-Neighbowhood of B& @h.-Tope.-Character of the K0hist.h.-Magnificent view.- Boundaries of Begram.-Evidences.-Mounds,-Tumuli.--Stones. - S i t e of city.-Deposita with the dead.-Testimony of Herodotus. -Funereal jars.-Traditions.-Mode of sepulture.-Absence of data.-H6piPu1.--Canal Miihighir.-Taimiir's colony.-Decline-of wm.-Significntion of B4grh.-B@h of KBbal.-B6gh of JelfilabBd.-B6griim of Pesh6wer.-Etymology.-Topes.-Anti- quities of Kohid.-Penvb.-Rkgh Rawh.-Localities in Paqj- shir.-Caves in Nijrow.-Vestiges in Taghow.-Ruins in Ghor- band.-Caves.-Ziiirat. . 148

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER VIII. PAOL

M. Honigberger.-His antiquarian operations. -Dr. Gerard.- Adventures of M. Honigberger.-Departure for Jel6labBd.-Id Gilh. -Incivility.-Bhht Kh&.-Defile of Sokhta C h a n h . 4 h i l j i guide. - a h B&bB.-Bbr&-ab.-Tsghow.-88ng Toda Baber Pddshilh.- Jigdi1lik.-Kotal Jigdil1ik.--Siirkh PCI.-Old acquaintance.-Kha- lil Khh ' s story.-&imGches.-Troublesome night.-Khalfl Khb ' s death.-Gandamak.-Nimla.-Bhlla BAgh.-Thtang.-Ascent of Si& Koh.-Caves.-Kajari.4oraichi.-Kills KBfr.-Cascadee.- Extensive view.--Shrine of Lot.-Large grsves.-Shrine of Lamech. -Opinions of the people.--8criptural names.-The PAli.--Scriptural and classical t e a t i m ~ ~ ~ . - ~ g l i c o n ~ u e s t e . - ~ s r l ~ civilization.-hif- fusion of their sciences and language.-Judicial astrology.-Univer- eality of PAli 1angusge.-Names of localitiea.4hrinee. 171

CHAPTER IX.

' Dost Mdhomcd Khan's designs.-Movcmcnta of Shah S i $ h a1 Mh1kh.-Amval of Meher Dil Khh-Si l tan Mdhomcd Khan's visit to Jel4labPd.-Plots . - D o Mhhonled Khh ' s feints.-Extor- tions. -Projects and counter-projects.-Deaigne disclosed.- H q i Khh discarded.-March of Dost MBhomed Khln.-Mir AFLil Khan.-His ingenuity.-Submission of Mghomed Osmb K h h - Measurea of Mdhomed Z e m b Khan.-Assault and capture of Jc16- lab6d.-Plunder of town.-Amval of Nawab Jabdr Khan.-At- tempt to aessssinate Dost Maomcd Khan.-Fate of aasmin.-Mb- homed Zeman K h h ' s conduct.-His recent re-appearance.-Die- posal of Jelaab6d.-Seizure of chiefs of Khonar and La1phra.- Abdhl Ghi6z Khan.-His proposed mission to India.-Dost Mh- homed KhWe objections.--8ecret departure.-Altercation at DHka. -Obstinacy of companions.-Reference to Sildat Khan.-Hie deci- sion and mesaage.-Hie conversation.-Hie fate.-Remarke thereon. -Hie successor in authority.--Shelman Khiird.-Miilla Ghorl.- Robbers.-Reception st Ispind 8ang.-Arrival at Peah6wer.-Con- fused state of afire.-Ridiculous a1arme.--8hllh 6iljBh a1 MGlkh's treaty.-The Silrhs profit by circumstances.-Their underetsnding with parties.-~ropo&l to the sird6rs.-Advance of Sikh army.- Stand of Haji Khiln.-Peshlwer taken.-Jocularity of Hari Singh. -Pir Mdhomed Khlin's valorous remark.-AbdGl Ghiiu Khiln'e arrangements. e03

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER X. PAOR

Departure from PeshBwcr.-March to Sh6khiln.-Exaird4rs.- Their conversation.-Fati Miihomed Khan's civility.-Encamp ment.-Bdra river.-Popular credulity. -Departure for Minchini. -Alarm on road.-Old monument.-Badrap.-MinchinL-Qhiljf. -Haidar Kh&n.-J$lawans.-Fea state of the river.-C-oneulta- tion.-Passage of the river.-Uhmatiilah's dexterity.-Shelm8n.- Ohilji's piety.-Plain of ShelmBn.-Kota1.-Bahad.r's requeet.- Ddka Kh6rd.-Good fortune.-Congratulations.-Dbks K e l h - Lilpiira. - Curious conversati&. - Suspicions. - Precautions. - KhCrd Khaibar.-Momand's tale.-Momand's intention.-He- noh.-Re-appearance of Ohilji.-Wilford's Nyss and Mount Merir. -Bkwal.-Ohilji and his gang.-Neeeeaity for action.-Kohiti tiinis.-Night march.-Mti K o t . - 4 r k h DiwAr.-Chighatai castle. -4oodwill of Kohisthis-Mirza AgB Jan.-His surmises.-My own knjectures. -Ghilji's evil repute.-Subsequent attempts.- Renewal of researches. 831

CHAPTER XI.

Anival of ex-sirdim of PesMwer. - Hgji Khan's project. - Mareh of Doet Mdhomed Khan to Khdahzir.-Feeling in the country.4irlisthn Khan's rebellion.-His message to Amir Mi - homed Khan.-Faction of Nawhb JaMr KhAn.-His proposal to Dost Mahomed KhBn.-Lctter to the Shah.-Imprudence of the Shah.-Action near KBndahir.-Flight of the Shah.-Fate of his followers.-Errors of the expedition -Intercepted correspondence. -Abd61 Elemad's villainy.-Dost Mahomed Khan's wish.--State of atfaire at KBba1.-Letter from K6mrBn.-Deportment of Khda- h h sir&re.-Return to Kilba1.-Death of Amir Mdhorned Khan. - - S h a d Khh-Proceedings of ex-eirdim of PesMwer.- Occupation of Jeld1abid.-Disavowal of their officere.-Meeting with Dost MBhorned Khan.-Letter to Rnnjit 8ingh.-KBmrBn'r offera to Shah ShJah a1 M6lkh.-The Shah's distrust.-Flies to Lbh- to Si~tBn-to Balochist$n.-Pursuit of the SMh.--Oenero- eity of Mehrlb Khan.-The Shah retires upon Zehri and BBgh.- Honesty of Elemandor Khlln.-His death.-The ShAh'e reception.

xii CONTENTS.

PAGE

a t Haidambid.-His return to L6dSna.-Doilt Mtihomed KhBn's letter to Ld&na.- Reply.--Saiyad Keramat Ali's 05eiousncss.- Dost Mdhomed Khiln's promise.-The Saiysd's dilemma.-His ingenuity.-His good fortune. 256

CHAPTER XII.

Start on a tour to Khonar.-Bis6t.-Tokehi.-Topes.-Pawhi. -Bazirak.-Khonah D&.-Malek Shafi.-KohistBnis. - Khbha l Khiln.-Tope of Khonah De?l.-Killa PbdshAh.-Fati Mihomd Khan.-IslCmabid.-Saiyad Hisaim and his ladies.-Mistaken for BBzi-ghars.-Remains at 1slimabid.-Route to Chitrfl1.-Dam Ndr.-Barkot and Daminj.-Mihomed ZemAn KhBn's failure.- Kdzi K h 4 family.-Feud.-Bflangar.-Bisdt.-Return to Titang. -Trip to LdghmBn.-Killa Kiifr.-ChahirbAgh.-Kergah.-Man- darawar.-Tirgari.-Rivers of Alishang and Aling6r.-MGmjfima.- Namzat Bizi.-Fatal accident.-Ziirat Me'tar Lbm Sbhib.-Tomb. - Wilford's reveries. - Native traditions. - 861 th Mihm6d's dream.-Discovery of Lamech's grcrve.-Ancient vestiges.-Koh Karinj.-A1ishang.-Nadjil.-Malek OsmL.-S$leh E n i Kot.- Rubies.-A1ingir.-Dam Niizi.-Revenue of Lfighmln.-Extent of cultivation. - Crops.-Eels.-Fircflies. - Inhabitants.-Skilful agriculturists.-Amusing story.-Mtihomed Akbar Khan's disaster. -Tope of Mhkh i Khbl.-Conjectures.-Noknr Khk1.-Mdrkhi Kh6l.Jijis.-Nasrd1ah.-Tumulus of Nokar Kh6l.-Departure for Kaba1.-Terikki.-Arrival at KBbal. . 273

CHAPTER XIII.

Dost Mdhomed Khb ' s intention to assume royalty.-View and opinions of parties.-Sdltan Mdhomed Khan's departure.-Day of i~augurat io~-Ceremony .-~xhortations.-Remarks of his subj&. -Dost Milhomed Khfin's demeanour.-His justification.-Prepara- tions for the war.-The K h b mfilla's dexterity.-Plunder of the Hindb. - Mihomed Osman Khan's address. - Dost Mdhomed Khan's intentions.-Extortion from Mihomeda~ls.-Death of Sabz AIL-Amount of exactions.-March of troops.-Haji Khan's depsr- ture.4tnt.e of the m n . - M i m Uzdr.-Milhomed Kdli Khan.- Progress to Je1Blabld.-Robbers a t St% Btibl.-Jigdillik.-Nm

CONTENTS. I

PAGE

sity of MBhomed Kirli K h a n . - G m h a k . - m t a . - h t h of Ndib Ybr Mbhomed.-Letters from Lhdih.-Equivocal nature of employment.-Incivility of the Nawib.-Ahiyad Keramat Ali's departure.-His tactiee.-His intentions.-His aseault on Ranjit Singh.-Delicate duties.-Evils of &iyad K e m t Ali's conduct.- Afghh notions of official etiquette. . 306

CHAPTER XIV.

Attempt to asaa8Ei~t.e the Amir.-His anxiety.-Letter from thc Governor-general.-Views of the government, and of Captain Wade. -Commencement of communications with Persia.-Miihomed Hirs- &-Allah Ydr Khan's letter.--The Amir's progress.-His prayer at Ali [email protected]. Harlan's mk- ion-Sirlt i in Mihomed Khan's letter.-Pu Mdhomed Khan inter- cepted.-Deputation of the Nawib.-Junction of Sbltin Mahomed Khib.-Khaibsr chiefs.-Ranjit Singh's movements.-Negotiations. -Truce.-The A d ' s cunning.-Rage of P u MAhomed Khb.- Committal of Pir Miihomed Khan.-Various conneeis.-Arrival of h j i t 8ingh.-His energy and dispositions.-Mission to the Afghan armp.-Amir decides on retreat.-Proposals to Wtan Mdhomed Khh.--S&h envoys made over to Sirltiin MBhomed Kh8n.-Retreat of the .Amir.-Arrival in Khaibar.-Sirltikn Miihomed Khan's con- - duct.-Search for Shltrln Mahomed Khan.-Lettern fiom Sirltib Mdhomed Khib.-Disposal of the army.--Return of the Amir to K&bal.-Mlrze &mi Khiin's wrath. Evils of the Amir's injudicious policy. 387

CHAPTER XV.

The Amir's reproaches.-His projects.--State of KPbal.-In- tripes and plots.+trenchments.-HiiJ Khan's conversations.- The Nawlb's irresolution.-Overturee from LddiB;ne.-Their effect at Kiiba1.-Results.-Dexterity of 8ir John Hobhouse.-Violence of intrigues.-Letter &om Captain Wade.-Arrival'pf Rashid Ak- hirndziida-Proscription lists.--Rashid Akhirndziida's subtlety.- Mirza Sami Khtin's retreat.-Precautions of the devoted.-Danger of my situation.-Interviews with the Amir.-Rashid Akh6ndzAda opposes the Amir's plans.-Useless expostulation of the -.-

xiv CONTENTS:

PAOP

Abdirlah Kh.h consigned to plunder.-&inue and spoil of Abdhlah Khan.-The Amir's repentance.-Restitution of property.-Popular dimtiefrrction.-Captain Wade's interference.-Resignation of a p pointment.--Ceseions by RPnjit Singh to SultBn Mdhomed Kh&n.- Letters fiom Pesh6wer.-The Nawab's willingnees to be deceived.- Interview with the Amir.-Events of 1836.--Series of intrigues and alarms.-The Amir's plans.--Strives to p i n over Mdhomed Osman Khan.- Sudden panic.- HAji~Khtb's recommendation.-The Khan and his Hindir creditors.-The Amir's financial measures.-Move- ments of the Sikhs and of Kbmrh.-Hhji Khiln's remarks on the times.-Departure of Pir Mtihomed KhBn.-His attempted assas- tination.-Impediments thrown on his retreat.-letters from India. -Reeume duties.-Intercourse between KIbal and Ludiann.- Renewed communications with Persia.-Hiji 1brtihim.-H~iss6n Ali. -1vh Vektavieh.-His seizure, release, and despatch from Rok- hh.-His intentions and assertions.-Abdul Samad's projects.- His influence in the Amir's hdram.-The Amir's cvasion.-Journcy to TAtang. . 349

CHAPTER XVI.

Aggrcssiona of Hlui 8ingh.-Preparations to repel it-Despatch of tioops to JeMabBd.-Plsoe of attack.-~ttem~t to as-nate the Amir.-Retaliation of Maomed Akbar Kb.-March into Khaibru.-Cannonade of Jamnid.-Attack by Hari BinghcDis- comfiture of Afghans.-Battle renewed by S h a m d i n KhBn.-Dan- ger of Amir's sons.-Feat of nltihomed Akbar Khan.-Hari Bingh mortally wounded.-Retreat of Sikhs.-Mim Sami Khan's praycm. -Death of Hari Singh.-His intrepidity.-Disputea in the Afghh amp.-Alteration between Abdul Samad and Mir AFLil K1iin.- Retreat of Afghh my.-Hqji K l ~ h ' s deeds in the DoPbe1i.-Mnah Singh'e messogps.-Haji Khb ' s letters to Kiibal.-Contest with U n a h Singh.-Retreat of HBji KhPn.-His suggestions at Jelilabhd. -His treac1q.-Abdirl Samad's effrontery.-Hie degradation and dismiesal.-Intemew with the Amir.-Witb Mdhomed Akbar Khb.-1WN Gomi Khb 's advice.-Correspondence between Sikhs and Afghh.--Return ta Kiiba1.-Adventure at Jigdil1ik.-Rccep- tion of Mgbomed Akbar KliPn a t Kiba1.-Dismiseal of HBji K h h . -His weloome at g%ndaIil.-His connexion with the British.- His understanding with Wu-His p d t of Dost MM~omed K h h .

CONTENTS. x v

PAGE

-His final dispusa1.-Tlie A ~ d r ' a displeasure with the Ghazni chiefs.-Zerin K h b ' s remark.-Motives of d~splessure.-Removal of Bhsruesdin Khb.-Remonstrence of K8ndaMr 6idh. - -6uppok ed plans of the Amfr.-The Amir's exultation. 38 1

CHAPTER XVII.

Intercourse between KAbal and India.-Letters to Lord Auckland. - Announcement of Captain Burnes' mission.- Letters f h m C a p *.in Wade.-Replies.-Lbdiha Akbar.-Further letters from C a p b i n Wade.-Replies.-Persian Envoy.-Russian letters.-MBhom- ed & a ' s 6rm8n.-Hqi I b d ~ i m ' s private letter.--Captain Wade's letters.-Kamber Ali's difficulties.-Kbdahlr treaty.-Lieutenant Vektavich.-Mbhomed Ht idn ' s arrival at KLLba1.-His ridiculous conversations.-Letters from Captain Burnes and Captain Wade.- Interview with the Amir.-Favourable dispositions of Raqjit Singh. -Night interview with the amir.-The NawBb's counsel.-Lieu- tenant Pottinger's departure from K8bal.-Remarks on his presence a t He&t.-Siege of Herfit.- The Qovernor-gcneral's warning off.- Results. . 403

CHAPTER XVIII.

Captain Burnes' notion of his mission.-Fallacy of opening the 1ndus.-Remarks on commercial missions.-My correspondence.- Letters from Captain Burnes.-His arrival in KBba1.-Defect in in- structions.--Captain Wade's jealousy.-Obstacles.-Advantages.- Statement of my views.-Favourable concurrences. . 430

CHAPTER XIX.

Captain Burnes' conversations.- His humility.-Visit of M i m Sami Khb.-Resolutions of the amir and his advisers.-Their dis- closure.-My dissent.-The Nawlb's opinion.-Nature of the ques- tion.- Captain Burn-' notice of proposals.- Recommendations to Lord Auck1and.- Unnecessery alarms of Persia.- Captain Burnes' delusion as to the amir.- Captain Burnes' neglect.- Dispute on prerogative.-Amval of Vektavich.-His suspicious credentials.- Dismay of Captain Burnes.-His imprudent admissions.-Hdss61i

xvi CONTENTS.

PAOE

AIL--Opinions at KBb1.-Replies of Government.-Despatch of Lieut. Leech to Kbdah6r.-Rejection of Dost Mbhomed Khiln's proposals.-Perplexing state of the mission.-Absence of Nawirb.- Rage of Dost M6homed Khan.-Unpleasant atay in Klba1.-Letter from the Chairman of the Court of Directors.-Interview with Mina 8emi Khan.-His remarks.--Intimation to quit KBba1.-DarbC con- venations.-Determination to leave.-Proposals to seize Captain Burns. Assault on my house.-Good-will of the inhabitants- Parting interview with Mina Sami Kk.-Remarks on the mission. -The Afghanistan correspondence.-Delusive intelligence and re- ports.--Object of Vektavich.-His reply to Dost Mbhomed K h b . -His return to Kilndab.-Ab6 Khan.-Htlji H G d n Ali Khiln, the Persian ambassador. . 451

CHAPTER XX.

Progress to Pshtiwer,-Captain Burnes summoned to Lahore.- Letter of Captain Burnes.-Reply of government.-Uusatisfiwtory employment.-Letters of Captain Burnes.-Letter of Mr. Macnagh- ten.-My recommendations.-Plsns of the government.-Their de- velopment.- Mr. Macnaghten volunteers his services.-.His career and fate.-Jew.-Dr. Lord's Ruesinn spy.-Captain Burnes' repre- sentation to Lord Auck1and.-Mr. Colvin's note.-My submission.- Offeneive communicntions.-Resignation of service.-Excarsion.- Journey to Lahore and Ferozp6r.-Passage down the river.-Mr. Macnaghten's letter.-Interview mth Sir Alexander Burns.-Lord Auckland's offers. -Captain Burnes' insincerity. -Dr. Lord's ac- count.--Sir Alexander Burns' account.-Application of Mr Mac- naghten.-Squabbles.- Conclueion. . 483

J O U R N E Y S

I N

BALOCHISTAN, AFGHANISTAN,

AND T H E PANJAB.

CHAPTER I.

Saiyad Keramat AlL-Hie adventure.-The NawAb J4b& K h K s services. - Lieutenant Conolly. - Saiyad Maihin'e reward. - Reaeone for it--Government proposal to Saiyad Keramat A l l -His communications with Captain Wade.-His recommend- ation.-&verity of the winter.-Indications of spring.--General thaw.-Warm and cold snow-Destruction of how-Nazzar BBb6 Adam.-Vernal flowere.-Water-fowl-Onats.-C!hlikrf. -Rswbh.--Swelling of River.-Dost Mdhomed Khfin's order. -Wag&h remark-Earthqualee. - The ShakGfa-The Ar- ghaw8n.-Id Khh&.-Abdul Samd-His arrival at KHM. -His seizure. - Hie release and employment. -His power.- Colonel Stoddart-Thunder ahowem-Wind-Progrees of the season.-Early vegetab1a.-leisure for inquiry-Dost Mdho- med K W s celebrity.-Hie appearance at Ohaznl.--Hie popu- larity with the people.-Opinions of higher claseee.

A FEW days after my return to Kkbd I was eurpriaed by a visit from a person announcing him- self as Saiyad Keramat Ali, agent of the Supreme Government of India He informed me of his travels, as companion of Lieutenant Arthur Conolly,

VOL. 111. B

2 NAWAB JABAR KHAN'S SERVICES.

and of his adventures at Kfibal. It appeared, that he Bad wished to preserve his incognito ; but a letter, destined for Her&, having been intercepted, his existence, and the nature of his employment, became revealed, and he waa consigned to the bandi-khlna, or prison, of Dost Mhhomed Khhn. The NawAb J a b b Khan embraced with alacrity the opportunity afforded of showing his good-will to Europeans, and to those connected with them, and urged to his brother, that he had a singular method of evincing his desire to cultivate a friend- ship with the Sfihibh of Hind, by placing the first of their agents sent to Kfibal in durance. The chief smiled, and admitted there was reason in the nawkb's rebuke, while he called for the saiyad, that he might hear what he had to say for himself. His tale was, that his sole business was to procure intelligence of AbbL Mirza and his movements. Dost Miihomed Khan observed, " Very good, they interest me also ; take care not to write anything about me." The nawkb joy- fully carried off the eaiyad, and installed him in apartments of his own house, where, under that good man's protection, he securely and unre- servedly prosecuted his vocations.

As the appointment of this saiysd proved the first step in the intercome between the Govern- ment of India and the Bfvak Zai chiefk, it may be profitable to note the causes leading to it, and to explain its nature. Lieutenant Arthur Conolly's

travels are before the public. I have never read them, but am aware that he experienced difficultiee at Her& which were relieved by a saiyad of Pe- shing, Maihin S h a , who accompanied him to Cal- cutta, and waa munificently rewarded. As the aaiyad was considered, in Afghhistb, to have aa much profited by the neceseitiea of Lieutenant Conolly as to have assisted him, the extraordi- nary liberality shown to him was matter of sur- prise ; nor did I fully understand it, until I was told by that officer himself, in 1840, that the aaiyad had the merit of having served a connexion of the then Mr. Secretary Macnaghten. It is fair to add, that the saiyad has not proved himself unworthy or ungrateful for the bounties he re- ceived; however, he might have been less favour- ably noticed had he been useful to any other in- dividual.

As the Government had interested itself aa re- garded Saiyad Maihin, it waa also bound to extend its patronage to Saiyad Keramat Ali, the com- panion of Lieutenant Conolly ; and it was proposed to him that he should repair to Kiindahh, and furnish, from time to time, reports on the pro- ceedings of AbbQ Mrza. I believe the Govern- ment at that time attached little consequence to the movements of the crown prince of Persia, and adopted merely the suggestion of the saiyad him- self, who objected, however, to Khdahiir, and pre- ferred KAbal, which waa a n t e d to, with an in-

R 2

4 SEVERITY OF THE WINTER.

junction that he was not even to report what passed there. After the aaiyad was established firmly in KAbal, and had more or less intercourse with parties there, he introduced certain matter in his reports, for which he was rebuked by Captain Wade, the political agent at Liidiha, to whom they were addressed ; but, subsequently, that func- tionary informed him -that such subjects would be agreeable, as well as any remarks he might make on them ; and, thus encouraged, no doubt t,he saiyad did as he was wished to do. I can state, on his own authority, that he recommended the formation of a Presidency,, the capital of which he suggested should be Haidarabiid in Sind.

The saiyad was more liberal in religious opiniona than was, perhaps, necessary or decent ; and, as the month of IUmazQn came on, I had much of his company, owing to his aversion to fasting, which, to save appearances, it was not right to display in the nawtb's house.

Tliroughout January and February the rigour of the season was excessive. Without thermo- meter, I could not verify the depression of tempe- rature, but its effects demonstrated it must have been very low. Copper vessels burst during the nights, and wine, a rare occurrence, was frozen.

In the last days of February a thaw took place, and on the 1st of March a swallow was observed, and hailed as an omen of the approach of spring. About the middle of February wild ducks and

CIENERAL THAW. 6

aparrows were exposed for sale in the bazars, and shortly afterwards piilak, or spinach, was pro- curable, with the tender shoots of the fish plant, here employed as vegetables, and gathered from the sun-exposed skirts of the hills.

With the month of March an evident change in the weather was perceptible. Water no longer froze, while showers of mingled snow and rain fell. Towards Noh Roz a general thaw commenced, and although pure snow descended so late as 21et March, it did *not remain on the soil. It is es- teemed fortunate by agriculturists when winter is accompanied by large quantities of snow, which is supposed both to promote the fecundity of the earth and to protect the grain sown in autumn, from which the spring crops are matured. Two kinds of snow are, however, distinguished, the warm and cold ; the first is beneficial, the laat prejudicial. Warm snow, in fact, implies pure snow, and cold snow, frozen, or iced snow. To the inhabitants of the city an excess in the flaky supply is not only inconvenient but induces more serious evil. Now that a thaw took place, in consequence of the mud walls of the buildings having become completely saturated with moisture, their foundations yielded to the pressure of the weight above them, aud very many houses fell in. Each accident was an- nounced by a bremendous crash. In my neighbour- hood two or three dwellings were involved in ruin. I t was consolatory amid these casualties to know

6 RURAL FESTIVAL.

that little or no personal injury was sustained by the inhabitants; a conservative power seemed to watch over human life. . Children, as usual in cases of calamity, paraded the roof% of the tenerpents, invoking the intercession with heaven of their Prophet and saints.

On the 28th March the fielde in the country were so free from snow that the annual rural festival, called Nazzar, or offering to BBbS Adam, was celebrated. On this occasion the zamhdiirs, or cultivators, yoke their oxen to their ploughs, and exercise the catt,le, initiatory to the labours of the year. The day is closed in festivity.

Dry frosts distinguished the beginning of April, and water once or twice was slightly iced over. I was now able to extend my walks without the gates, and watch the starting into life of the various spring flowers which embellish the meadows and the skirts of the hills. Of numerous species the earlier were bulbs. The first which appears is called GG1 Noh Roz, the flower of the new year. It bears a minute yellow blossom, but is so abun- dant as to clothe with a golden garb the lower eminences, on which it delights. Water-fowl were now plentiful in the marshes about the city, which were frequented by the shikBris, or fowlers. The sirdws falconers would wade in the water, and occasionally let fly their hawks. I observed an- other mode employed to counteract the shyness of the birds. Two men with jGls, long heavy

VEBNAL FLOWERS. 7

muskets, would creep behind a bullock, directed towards the fowls, and when d c i e n t l y near, fire leisurely over the animal's back a t them. In this month many of the birds that retired a t the ap- proach of winter, again made their appearance; swallows, pigeons, wagtails, and the mGrg sGli- m h ; the lark also renewed his carols. Flies, gnats, and at length the butterfly, flitted in the vernal sunshine. Gnats are not generally trouble- some at KQbal, but about this time vast numbers are generated on the margins of the marshes and swamps. In the evening, when myriads are on the wing, it is prudent to avoid them. About the middle of April chGkri, or the green leaf- stalks of the rhubarb-plant, were brought from the hills of PaghmAn. In a week they were followed by rawtlsh, or the tended and blanched stalks. The inhabitants rejoiced at the presence of one of their luxuries. The coriander-plant, cultivated in the gardens of the city, ws~l now seen in the markets, being made to serve as a vegetable. On the 10th of the month, April, the river flowing through the city waa so swollen by melted snows, that appre- hensions were raised that it would inundate its banks. Much alarm prevailed, and the residents '

in the quarters most exposed to danger removed their effects, many to the B a a Hi&. The houses of my Armenian friends were crammed with the chattels of their acquaintance. Public criers pro- claimed throughout the b8eare the s i rdss orders,

EARTHQUAKES.

that every person should bring four stones to con- tribute to the construction and renewal of the bands, or barriers. It was waggishly remarked, that had Dost MBhomed KhAn ordered sCh mg, or three instead of four stones, compliance would have been general. It is customary with A f g h b expelling their wives, to cast in succession three stones on the ground, at the same time exclaim- ing " Yek tillAk,--do tillAk,-seh till& ;" or, once divorce, twice divorce, thrice divorce. The aame observance is usual on the dissolution of friendship, or connexion with any one. On the 17th April a slight earthquake engaged momentary attention ; on the 19th April a very smart one succeeded. I had become somewhat accustomed to these phe- nomena, yet not altogether reconciled to them. It is esteemed correct and deferential to the will of heaven to sit tranquil during their occurrence. As the rafters of my chamber quivered and rattled over my head, I could not but fancy that it was safer to be outside. Commonly the shock is so transient that i t has passed as soon as felt. Willows had now become leafed, and many of the trees began to display incipient foliage. The chief attraction of this month, however, was the shakGfa, or blos- soming of the fruit-trees. The orchards were thronged by parties to witness, and luxuriate in the delightful visions they exhibited. The environs of the city have, indeed, at this time a beautiful appearance, but imagination can scarcely picture

THE D H A W A N . 9

the enchanting prospects afforded by the pic- turesque valleys of Paghmb and Koh D h a n . In the flower-gardens, and at zidrats, the narkis, or narcieeus, and the zambak, or sweet-flag, ex- panded into bloom; and on the hills the laa, or wild tulip, charmed with its infinite variety. At some few of the z i h t e the splendid arghawb- tree, arrayed in clusters of red flowers, produced in the scenery of the hills almost a magic effect. This tree, sparingly found at Khbal, as at Panjah Shah Mirdln, JehAn B b , Kheddar, and Eber Bdshih, abounds at the locality of SCh Y&b, or the Three Friends, and between it and Tope Dara, in the neighbourhood of Chhrik6.r in the Kohish . The spot is, moreover, commemorated by Baber, who ordered the construction of a summer-house, and planted some chaniir, or plane-trees at it, pos- sibly those which are now to be seen there. Com- manding an extensive view, it was adapted to the indulgence of his festive recreations, and enabled him in s m o n to enjoy the fairy-like prospect of the flowering arghawhs. These cover the rising grounds to the skirts of the hills, and owing to the space over which they are spread, in bloseom pro- duce a truly gorgeous scene, which may be ex- plained perhaps by the native assertion, that the plain is on fire. I am not certain what tree the arghawAn may be, nor of its native soil, for it is a strrrnger at S6h Yiiriin, and thence was introduced into the ziiirats of Kibal. The stems and branches

are covered with clusters of flowers, of a bright pink hue, followed by seed-poda. The leaves somewhat resemble those of the lilac-tree. Baber, or his translator, mentions, I believe, two arghawbs, the red and the yellow. The latter is a very different plant, and called arghawhn unjustly. It is common on a11 the plains of the country, also on those of Balochistiln, and Persia In the latter region i t is named mahiik. It is a shrubby plant, bearing clusters of yellow pea-like flowers, with compound alternate leaves. It is one of the very numerous natural objects whose beauty is not prized because it is not rare. The arghawh is a small tree.

At the close of April the celebration of the Id KhGrbh, or great MShomedan festival in comme- moration of the triumph of the faith of Abraham, gave an opportunity for the display of much pomp and festivity. The day was ushered in with salutes of artillery, and the sirdh, in state, repaired to the Id G& without the city, and repeated public prayers. He took advantage of the occasion to confer a handsome khelat, or dress of honour, upon the notorious AbdGl Samad.

This man, i t may be noted, arrived from Pe- shiiwer during March. A profligate adventurer, originally of Tabsz, he had flagrantly signalised himself in every country he had visited, as well as in his native land, which he was compelled to fly. He had been at Bagddd, in India, Sind, and tho Panjiib. At Peshiwer he had ingratiated himself in

ABDUL SAMAD. 11

the favour of SGl th Mihomed K h h , and had been appointed to raise a battalion of infantry. His unprincipled actions and his audacity had made him many enemies, and fearing the result of some discussions which had originated, he decamped, and contrived to reach Kkbal. Dost Miihomed K h h was not satisfied that his fear of S G l h Mihomed KhAn was real, and suspected that he came with some sinister purpose, in concert with that chief. After receiving him in the most courteous manner, he ordered him and his property to be seized. The sirdk had, indeed, been told that AbdGl Samad possessed some fifty thousand ducats. The confis- cation brought to light about six hundred rupees, and the sirdk felt ashamed at his unprofitable breach of hospitality. AbdGl Samad had not been idle. Although confined, he had, through the me- dium of a female singer, and superannuated Kin- chin$, interested in his favour one of the sirdth's wives, the mother of Mihomed A k b k K h h . H e caused to be represented to her, how useful he might prove in case of accident to the sirdtir, in securing the succession to her aon, who could not hope to sit in his father's place without opposition from his uncles, and even from his brothers. The fond mother induced her son to support AbdGl Samad, who was not only released, but an ill- formed battalion, under one Sh& Miihomed KhAn, was transferred to him, with instructions to or- ganize and perfect it. The adventurer soon became

12 HIS POWJZR AT BOKHARA.

as absolute at KGbal as he had been at Peshgwer, and his ascendancy seemed to prove Dost Mihomed Khin in no wise superior to his brother as to sense or principle. If i t were wished to believe that the KAbal chief was a good man, his connec- tion with AbdGl Samad belies the supposition, and establishes the reverse. Cognizant of his many enormities, he could only have retained him aa a fit and ready instrument of villany. There must have been no little congeniality of disposition in the bosom of the sirdib-, to have caused him, on the account of so profligate a character, to endanger his own reputation, and set public opinion at defiance. I t would have been entirely needless to have no- ticed such a man in these pages had he not subse- quently given a mischievous bias to the politics of KGbal.

I shall have occasion hereafter again to mention him, and to allude to the circumstances which led to his ejection from KAbal. From thence he went to Bokhiira, and, strange to say, became as power- ful for evil there as he had been at KAbal or Pesh&wer,-undoubtedly from ministering to the. in- dulgence of the impure habits which disgrace the present ruler. From the accounts which have tran- spired concerning the deteiltion and treatment of our countryman, Colonel Stoddart, I fear he has suffered much from the villany of AbdGl Samad, notwithstanding there are statements, if not let- ters, from the unfortunate officer himself, to the

EARLY VEOETABLES. 13

purport that Abdfil Samad had befriended him. To be befriended by such a man is in itself cala- mitous.

The month of May commenced with unsettled and variable weather. Showers of rain, and more than once of hail, occurred, accompanied by thunder. Though constant repetition in the plain of Peshiiwer, and sometimes extending over Jeliilabbd, thunder- storms are rare at Khbal. The opening of spring and the close of autumn may be marked by them. May was also characterized by violent winds from the north and north-west, dreaded by the proprie- tors of orchards. Rose-trees during this month unfold their blossoms, and many other flowers in- crease the interest of walks amid the gardens. Bfiber Bhdshah becomes now delightful; but it is not until June that the floral beauties of Kiibal are well developed, or that its groves are fully in- vested with foliage. In the middle of May lettuces make a grateful addition to the vegetable stores of the bazar, and unripe plums and apricots, here eaten by all classes, nor deemed unwholesome, pour into the markets. Cresses, radishes, and cucumbers are also abundant.

The leisure which my sojourn at Khbal during this period afforded, gave me an opportunity of be- coming better acquainted with the opinions held of Dost Mfihomed Khhn, as well as of acquiring a knowledge of his career in life, which before I possessed but imperfectly. As he has since pro-

minently engaged much public attention, even out of his own country, a brief sketch of his history may not be considered by many out of place, espe- cially as erroneous estimates of his character are perhaps generally entertained,. and circumstances have given to him a celebrity to which neither his virtues nor ability entitled him ; however, aa an Afghh ruler he may have been respectable, and even better than most of his contemporaries.

When I first saw him at Ghazni, in 1827, he was tall and spare, his countenance evidently indi- cating that he had his cares. He waa distinguished by his plain white linen attire, in remarkable con- trast to the dashing gold-embroidered cloaks and vestments of his surrounding chiefs. Amongst the lower classes of his subjects he was decidedly po- pular; and at that time I had no opportunity of ascertaining the sentiments of people in higher life. On our road from Khdahh , as we met people and inquired the news of KAbal, we had but one reply, that it was "abiid wa ferimb," flourishing and plentiful. There was but one opinion expressed, that the prosperity was due to the "in- siif," or justice of Dost MBhomed K h b . After reaching Kkbal, strolling one day towards the mea- dows of Chahiir D6h, I heard one man complain to another, that some person had thrown his child from the roof, and thereby broken its arm. He was asked, if Dost Miihomed K h b was dead ? No remark was more frequently repeated, in retort to

OPINIONS OF HIGHER CLASSES. 16

complaints of injustice, than that Dost Miihomed Khdn was alive. These instances prove the estima- tion in which he was held by certain classes of his people. I soon discovered that he was in no such repute with his relatives and dependent chiefs, who entertained a very different opinion of him and of his virtues. They considered his pretended mode- ration and love of justice as mere cloaks to his ambitious policy, and as semblances necessary to keep his followers together, and to prevent them

I from intriguing and combining with his brothers at Kiindahh and Peshiiwer.

CHAPTER 11.

Sirefr$z Kh&.-Dost Mdhomed Khkn's mother.-Her charms and attractions.-Dost Mdhomed Khln'a neglected education.- Fati Kh6nln'a revenge of his father's death.-His successee and elevation.-Youth of Dost Mghomed KhAn.-MQomed Azem KhAn.-The Vezir's jealousy and remark.-Dost Mghomed KhMs perfidy.--Seeke r e k e in the royal camp.-Mbhomed Azem Khln pacified.-Doet Mdhomed Khan'e acquaintance with Jai S i g h -Laxity of Fat1 Khiln.-Jai Singh'e flight to Peah6wer.-Fati Kh&'e policy.-Tijilts of the Kohidn.-Their condition. - Dost Mdhomed Khiln appointed to the Kohiin.- His proceedings.-Khwoja KhPnji inveigled and slain.-Slaugh- ter of Koh D h a n chiefi.- Treatment of robber chiefa- Improved state of Koh D h . - F a t 1 Khin'e advance upon Taghow.-Fat1 Khh'e caution.-Recovery of KBshmlr.-The Vazk'e interview with Ranjit Sigh. - At& sold to Ranjit S i g L B a t t l e of Haidm-Dost Mtihomed W e gallantry. -Fati KhWa military talent. - His suspicious conduct.- Activity of hi enemiee.-Expedition projected.-Fati Khan's return to KPba1.-His triumph over hi enemies.-March to He&. - Hiiji KhPn'e early career. - Friendship with Doet Mahomed Khln.-Relievee hi neceanities.-Seizure of Firoz Din. - Doet Mahomed Khh'a criminal conduct. - Flight to KBehmir. - Sh&dda Kdmrbin. - His character.- His jealousy of Fati Khh.- Fatl KhAn'a supposed views. - Popular con- jectureaSh&hz&da K h r h prompted to action.-Hie Cter's reproach. -The VaeVs action with Kajar. - Hie wound and retreat. - Fati AlE ShBh's apprehension and remark.-State of Af@W&n.-Fatl Khin's seizure the signal b r the die- solution of the monarchy. - Fib Dil Khan made prisoner by

SIRAFRAZ KHAN. 17

ShiUdda K4dn.-Made mir of the Bdrak Zai tribecEscapes to And&.- Hilji K h h declines the S U d s ' a offers. - Joina Ffir Dil Khhn.Sone of SirafI$z Khan.-Liat and di~poaition of them.

Dosr MAHOMED KHAN is one of the younger sons of Simfrb K h h , the B h k Zai sirdh, slain by order of Sh& Zemhn at K h d a h h , in 1799. Like all good D h h i chiefs, Sirafrk K h h had many wives, of all classes and descriptions, and by them a numerous progeny. The mother of Dost Miihomed Khhn was of a JGhhiir family, and it may be presumed handsome and engaging, as she was latterly the most favoured lady of the h h , and the only one who, in her tour of conjugal duty, when her lord was on marches, had the power to retain him in her company until the morning, on which account the troops blessed her, and would have been pleased if it had always been her tour, for they enjoyed their rest, which was sadly disturbed in the case of his other wives, for, seemingly to get away from them, the old sirdk would march at midnight.

At the time SirafXz K h h was slain he had twenty-two sons living. Dost Miihomed K h b , and his only full, and younger brother, Amir M& homed Khan, were then mere children. To the 108s of his father at so early an age may be partly owing that the- future chief of Khbal was allowed to grow up untutored and illiterate. Fati Khan, the elder son of Sirafrb K h h , who, if some

VOL. 111. C

18 DOST MAHOMED KHAN'S YOUTH.

accounts be correct, was more guilty than hie sire, fled to Andiil5, the family castle on the Helmand, and the next year, in concert with Shkhzhda M a - mbd, took Khdahh , and the year following the dispersal of the royal army at N6d made him maater of Kiibal, and subsequently of the pereon of Sh& ZemAn, whose loss of sight atoned for a similar injury previously inflicted by him upon S h k b d a HGmaiGn.

The fortunate MhhmGd became invested with regal power, and the adventurous Fati K h h with the dignity of Vae'lr. This order of things waa not, however, so firmly established but that it wwa overthrown by a new revolution, which placed on the throne Sfijiih a1 MGlkh, a full brother of Sh& Zemb. The blinded prince waa released from captivity, and Sh& MBhmGd took his place. In course of time the latter found means to escape; and Fati K h h , ever ready for 'bold emprise, by another desperate effort, effected the expulsion of S h a SGj6.h a1 MMGlkh. I have no more than alluded to these events, because up to this time Dost Maomed K h b was not yet heard of; indeed was too young to take share in them, or otherwise to attract attention. On the second asaumptioa of power by S h a MghmGd he was advancing in youth, and. waa always about the person of his brother the Vuh, rather as a dependant than a relative, performing even menial offices, such aa eerving him with wine, and preparing hie chillam.

MURDER OF MIRZA ALI. 19

The course of eventa led the court to Peahiiwer ; when Dost Mihomed K h h first brought himself into notice by an atrocious deed, which well marked his reckless and daring disposition. Amongst the many brothers of the vaz'u, Miihomed h e m K h b , of nearly the same age, was distinguhhed by hie dignified deportment and propriety of conduct. He was also very attentive in the administration of his affairs. The vmIr, so indifferent to his personal matters that frequently no dinner waa prepared for him, and his horses were standing without barley, was piqued at the better manage- ment of his brother, and felt annoyed when he heard him lauded. He imputed the prosperous condition of his establishments to the ability of the eiihibkirr, or steward, M'ma Ali K h b , who, he used to observe, had made a " shaks," or man, of his brother. One day, exhilarated by wine, he ex- claimed, " Would to God t.hat some one would kill M'as Ali, and deliver me from dread of Miihomed h e m Khh." Dost Miihomed Khh, present, asked if he should kill the mirza; the vaeh replied " Yes, if you can." Next morning, Dost M i i h o d K h h placed himself on the road of the m'ha, in the bazar of Peahiiwer, and as he proceeded to pay his respects to his employer, accosted him with "How are you, Mirza?" placed one hand upon his waistiahawl, and with the other thrust a dagger into his bosom. He immediately galloped off, not to the quarters of the vaz'u, but ta the tent of

c 2

20 THE VBZIR'S ARGUMENTS.

Ibriihim K h b , Jemshidi, a sirdiir of note,. and in favour with Sh&h MiihmGd. Here he was within the circle of the royal tents, and i t would have been indecorous to have removed him : perhaps his reaaon for seeking refuge there. ~ d h o m e d Azem K h b was naturally incensed upon hearing of the catastrophe, and vowing that nothing but Dost Mlihomed Khkn's blood could atone for that of hie ill-fated mirza, in violent anger sought the vazir. That profligate man expressed his contrition that an accidental remark made by him, in his cups, should have caused the perpetration of so foul a crime, but pointed out, that the mirza could not be recalled to life; that Dost Miihomed was still a brother ; that if it were determined to punish him he could not be taken from his asylum; that the impure habits of Sh&h MihmGd and his son K h - r b were known to all, and if Dost MBhomed, a beardless youth, was left in their power, fresh causes of ridicule and reproach, were likely to arise to the fimily,-what had been done, could not be undone: it was prudent, therefore, to forget the past, and

avert the evil consequencea of the future. By such representations and arguments, Miihomed Azem Kh%n suffered himself to be persuaded, the &a was forgotten, and Dost Miihomed KhAn was brought from the protection of Ibriihim KhAn, Jemshidi. The youth had developed talent of high order, and his retinue was increaaed by the Vazfr h m three or four horsemen to twenty.

INTIMACY WITH JAI SINGH. 21

About this time the acquaintance of Dost Milt homed KMn with the Sikhs commenced; and in a manner which deserves notice, aa throwing light on the course of his early life. It can be easily imagined, that the example of the dissolute Fati K h h must have had a pernicious effect on the morals and habits of those immediately about him, and Dost Miihomed K h h may claim commiseration when it is considered that he was elevated to man- hood amid the disgraceful orgies of his brother. Great suspicion attaches to the character of Fati K h h personally, and it is believed that in his

a youth he had made himself subservient to the vilest passions of many. I t was also remarked, that until he felt himself securely fixed in power, he did not object to an acquaintance between the depraved Sh& MiihmGd and his younger brothers, and to wch an acquaintance a degree of opprobrium was attached by the world, even if unjustly. Jai Singh, brother of Naiiil Singh, Attiid Wala, was deputed by Ranjit Singh on a mission to Peshiiwer, and there became acquainted, the Sikhs say, enamoured of Dost Mdhomed K h h . An endless succession of feasts and entertainments, of riotous debauches and nautches, in the B&gh NGra KhAka, testified to the friendship between the old Sikh chieftain and the youthful DGrihi. Jai Singh on his return to La- hore waa suspected of having formed too close an intimacy with the vazh, and being otherwise dis- trusted by Ranjit Singh, he thought it prudent to fly,

22 FATI KEIAN'S POLICY.

and with forty horsemen (Sikhs) he arrived, for the second time, at Peshgwer. He and his followers now swelled the retinue of Dost Mihomed Khdn.

The vazir, on his first accession to office and power, had to contend with the great hereditary s i r d h of the D G r a clans, who naturally opposed his advancement. Many of these were men of energy and ability, but these qualities were com- bined with that remarkable simplicity which per- vades the DGrBni character. The vazir, by vio- lence or by fraud, was enabled to remove many ~f them. His ejectment was caused by a con- federacy of the SGd leaders of KAbal; and on his re-acceesion to power he judged it expedient for its maintenance, to destroy them. Up to the close of the reign of ShAh ZemAn, it does not appear that the Tajiks of the Kohisth excited much no- tice, probably remitting an easy tribute, and en- gaged in their internal disputes. From every ac- count, it would appear that from their feuds and violence of character their country was in an awful state of distraction. But they had become inured to warhe, had become supplied with fire- iums, and had learned the use of them, and und& the direction of able chieftains, formed in the tur- bulent times in which they lived, had become un- doubtedly formidable. In spiritual affirirs, rigid SGnia, they paid implicit obedience to their holy men, the descendants of revered familiee, who had for centuries been established in the count.ry. The

.DOST MAHOMED KHAN IN POWER 23

celebrated Mir Wais availed himself of their pow- erful aid, and their tumultuous but gallant bands rolled from their hills and valleya as a deluge upon the city. Fati K h b was compelled to yield, for the time, to the storm. Again in power, it behoved him, he thought, to guard against ita re- currence. It was in conformity to his general plans of asenring the stability of his aecendency, that he placed the governments of the country in the hands and trust of his brothers. The peouliar talent and promise evinced by Dost Miihomed Khgn emi- nently fitted him for the arduous task of arranging the factions of the KohistPn ; and he waa appoiited hikam, or governor. He was accompanied by hie old friend Jai Singh when he marched to aeeume his charge. I t would be too tedious to recount the various events which happened in the Kohisth of KAbal, consequent on Dost Mihomed Khan's appointment. It will be sufficient to allude to a few of them, and to note the general results.

Dost Mdhomed K h h exercised all his ability ; gaining his ends by stratagem or by force, but never employing the latter when the former wss snfficient. Some of the obnoxious chiefs he in- veigled by K o r b and falee oaths ; others, by in- termarriages,-a means not unfrequently resorted to by D b r w to get their enemies into their power, when other wiles have failed. In this mode he obtained a wife from Perwh, and dislocated the union of its chiefs, slaying some, and deepailing

24 KHWOJA KHANJI INVEIGLED.

the others. The sturdy leaders of the Kohisth, were successively circumvented and disposed of. One of the most potent and cautious, Khwoja Khhj i , of Khkzai , was nearly the only one who remained, and he had rejected every overture, and refused to attend upon any consideration the camp of the sirdsir. It was felt by Dost Mihomed Kh&n that nothing was done while Khwoja K b j i remained in being, and he redoubled his exertions to ensnare him. He sent K o r h after K o r h ; en- gaged to marry his daughter; but could not entice the old chieftain from his castle. The Khwoja, like every man in the Kohisth, had enemies. The chief most inimical to him, was in attendance upon Dost Mihomed K h h . This Sirdh, as a last means of winning the confidence of the Khwoja, put his enemy to death, claiming the merit of having proved the sincerity of his desire to become friendly with him at the risk of incurring disgrace in the eyes of the world. The murder took place at Baiyh, and Dost Miihomed K h h invited the Khwoja to meet him, and cement their friendly understanding, at the castle of his former foe. The Khwoja was now overcome, and to fulfil his des- tiny, repaired to Baiyln. He came, however, with a most numerous retinue. Dost Mihomed Khln received him with all politeness and humility ; a thousand protestations of friendship and service dowed from his lips; he addressed the old man as . his father, and, it may be, lulled his euspicions.

KHWOJA KEANJI SLAIN. 26

At night Dost Miihomed K h b took the hand of the Khwoja, and led him within the castle, that he might witness the preparation of an inventory of the effects of the slain, observing, that it was necessary, as the Khwoja knew what a particular man the vazh was. As soon as the castle was entered the gatea were closed, and as the Khwoja passed into an apartment, said to be the tosha khba, Doet Mdhomed KMn gave the signal, in TGrki, to a

his Kazilbbh attendants, who cut their victim down. His head, severed from his body, was thrown from the battlements amongst his followere. In the first transporte of their indignation they commenced an attack upon the castle, but disunited and discon- certed, they retired before morning. Dost Maom- ed Khan was left at leime to rejoice in his victory, .and the triumph of his dexterity.

The government of the sirdiir comprised the Koh D h a n well as the Kohisth; and there was ample room for the exercise there also of his tact and severity. The slaughter of eight chiefs on the same day at Chhikiir, might serve to allay .the apprehensions of the vazir for the future, while it promised to guarantee the tranquillity of the country. Saiyad Ashrat Khb, of Hupib, waa deemed too powerful to be allowed to live; and many others, although not equally dreaded, met a similar fate. While these murders, which may be called political ones, were in train of commission, .the vigilance of the sirdh was more honourably

26 S E ~ L W N T OF KOH DAMAN.

directed to the suppression of the robber chi& who, with organized bands, devastated the country or infested the communications. These particular- ly prevailed in the parts of the Koh D&man, near KAbal. The robber chiefs and their gangs were natives of the villages, and resided openly in them, and exercised, with the knowledge of all, their furtive profession. Society was on the point of becoming disorganized completely had not a remedy been applied. To these desperadoes Dost M& homed KhQn adopted a more judicious and m d y line of conduct. He tendered them forgiveness for the past, if they resumed honest and lawful occupa- tions; if they persisted in their habits of rapine, to be blown from the cannon's mouth was the pe- nalty of their crime and contumacy. Many accept+ ed the indemnity offered, and even engaged in the s i rdss service ; others were speedily taken and put to death. In process of time the Koh D b n was brought to a state of order and security ; surprising, because it had never been known before to exist there. Theae important transactions were not ef- fected altogether without a display of force; par- tial revolts had often made it necessary to mm- mons troops from Kiibal, but no very serious con- flict ensued upon any occasion. The full-brother of Dost Miihomed Khhn, Amh Miihomed K h h , who had been appointed h&am at the city, generally marched to the assistance of his brother. In one instance Sh& Mlihmiid, in person, with the vazir

PATI KHAN'S CAUTION. 27

Fati K h h , entered the KohistAn; having made a demonstration in that quarter, the army moved towards Nijrow and Taghow. At the entrance of the two valleys a few men in a tower, called BG j SQkh5, ventured to oppose its progress. A panic wized the troops, who fled, abandoning their equi- page. Want of provender and provisions wae alleged to justify the retreat, but possibly some unexplained cause led to it.

I t waa a maxim with the vazh not to allow his brothers to remain too long in governments, both that they might not become too rich, and that they should not forget their dependence on him. He therefore sometimes recalled Do& Mghomed K h h to bis presence. A& Miihomed K h h officiated daring hie absence, whether occasioned by the pre- caution of the vaz'lr, or that the services of Dost MQhomed KhAn were required elsewhere.

The vazh was accustomed to exclaim " Oh! .that God would deliver into my hands Kbhmir and Heriit; the former that I might possess its revenues, the latter, that my enemies might have no place of refuge." A financial operation, the coinage of base rupees, enabled him to march upon Kbhmir, which he recovered from AtG M k homed K h b , B h i Zai, and his brother-in-law. In this expedition Dost Mtihomed K h h was pre- sent. The vaz'u; before he entered the happy valley, had an interview with Rsnjit Singh on the bank of the JGlam, the Sikh chief crossing

the river. Here Dost Miihomed Kh ih had an opportunity of evincing his instinctive propensity of desiring to punish any one whose folly induced him to place himself in the power of his rival or enemy, by a significant wink to the vazh that the Sikh was a t his mercy. After the surrender of Khhm'u; which the vazh confided to his bro- ther, Mihomed Azem K h h , JehAndbd K h b , the brother of the displaced A t G Mihomed K h h , surrendered for a pecuniary consideration the for- tress of Atak, of importance from its site to Ranjit Singh. The vazh was induced to attempt its re- covery, and engaged' a Sikh army, covering i t a t Haidaro. In this action Dost Mihomed K h h , a t the head of a large body of horse, led the van, broke the Sikh line, and carried their guns. His troops thought the victory decided, and dispersed to plunder; the Sikhs rallied, and the vazir, who shbuld have been ready to have supported the bat- tle, had fled, having been told that Dost Miihomed K h h was slain. This chief had no alternative but to follow; gaining an increase of reputation, however, by bringing off the vaz'lr's abandoned guns. Fati K h k while his personal bravery can hardly be impeached, was very unsuccessful as a general ; indeed, he lost nearly every action in which he fought, and triumphed generally over his foes by dispersing them without combat. The means by which he contrived to succeed being inoperative against an external foe, the chance

SUSPICIONS OF THE VAZIR. 29

is, that his reputation would have been impaired had he been much employed on foreign expe- ditions.

There are still very opposite sentiments expressed in Afghhistan as to the loyalty of Fati K h h . If carrying on war, and fighting battles contrary to the express orders of his sovereign be acts of rebellion, he was in rebellion when he attacked the Sikhs at Haidaro. But here so much licence is assumed, and so great a latitude is allowed, that it might be unfair to argue from his neglect of his prince's instructions. His judgment may have dictated that the course he adopted was the pru- dent one in the then state of affairs, and he de- pended on success to justify himself, or even to claim merit from his easy sovereign. During the operations, however, his enemies at court had not been idle. They had reiterated their suspiciom to the Shkh that, master of Khhmlr, Fati KhAn intended to throw off his allegiance and to un- mask his designs. An impression, moreover, per- vaded the minds of the public that the vazir was yiighi, or in rebellion. Whether he was or not must remain matter of doubt; if he was defeated, it became convenient to disavow it ; and from the field of Haidaro he made his way, almost as a courier, to Kiibal. An expedition against Persia for the defence of Heriit had been determined upon in his absence, and Shiih Mamiid was en- camped without the city at Aliabiid. One morn-

30 MARCH TO HEBAT.

ing, unattended, clad in a postin, and covered with mud, rode galloping into camp Fati K b . In his uncouth attire he presented himself before the S h a , saluting him with a sonorous S a l h klikarn. The good-natured prince received him kindly, and the vazir asked what plans were in agitation. On being informed, he said, " Who so fit to contend with Kajar (Persia) as Fati ?" Thus reinstated in his monarch's good opinion, he blackened the h e 8 of his enemies, as the Afghhs express it, that is, he covered them with confusion.

The vazir marched with a formidable army to Heriit, and Dost Maomed K h h accompanied it.. At Khdahiir they were joined by the prince Kimdn, the governor. To him had repaired the displaced governor of Kibhmir; and, known to be jealous of the vaz'lr, his court had become an asylum for all hostile to him. On this march Dost Miihomed K h b became acquainted with H&ji Khh, KhAka. A soldier of fortune, he had originally served under Sh6hin KhBn, in the em- ploy of Mastapha Khh, a brother of Mamiid K h h , the chief of KalBt. ShChin K h h was a Bdbi, and j e d h of some fifty men. Haji K h b soon became his confidant, and happening to be at D6ra Ghbi K h h , an incident brought him to the notice of Jab& Khh , half-brother of the vaz'lr, and then governor of the place. S u b quently the vaz'lr arrived at D6ra G h b i K h h , and on Haji Kh4n being introduced to him, was

VIOLATION OF EARAM. 3 1

so pleased with his manners and history that he p m e d him into his service. Hiiji K h b would only consent on condition of his old friend, the Bdbi jemadiir, receiving the government of Sivi. Hiiji K h h soon grew into great favour. He had discernment to discover that Dost Mdhomed K h b waa a rising character, and very muoh attached himself in consequence to him. The sirdb was, aa Hiiji K h b once remarked to me, always the most needy of the sons of Sirafrh K h h , and to relieve his necessities was a likely means of secur- ing his good-will. Hiiji K h h made himself use- ful in this way, and at various times alleviated his embarrassments; not with his own funds, for he had none, but by procuring eums of money from others. Hersit was held by the prince Hkji Firoe D'm, a brother of Shih MBhmbd. The po- liv of Fati KhAn required his seizure, and he per- suaded SMh ~ B h m ~ d to consent to it. This was dected by stratagem, but the equivml act had its ruinous coneequences. In the confusion Dost Miihomed K h h , attended by his followers and those of the Sikh Jai Singh, forced the palm of the captive prince, penetrated into the hiham, and de- spoiled its inmates. Amongat other unpardonable deeds, he tore away the jewelled band which se- cured the per jhas of the wife of the prince Ma- lek Kibim, eon of the prince H&ji Finn Din. The outraged lady waa a sister of the prince KihuAn, and sent her brother her profaned dress.

32 FLIGHT OF DOST MAHOMED KHAN.

The prince brother swore revenge. In this miser- able affair some of Jai Singh's followers were wounded, and Dost Miihomed K h h , aware he had everything to fear from the vazir's resentment, fled from Heriit, in company with a few servants and the Sikh. He eventually reached Kbhmh, where his brother, Miihomed Azem K h h , placed him under eaay restraint, agreeably to ordere re- ceived from Fati Khan. The Shkhztda Khmrh, the only son of Shkh MiihmGd, had early given tokens of a spirit which could ill brook to be controlled. Sternly exercising authority, he was conspicuous for unrelenting severity, which he pushed even to brutality. Highly immoral and licentious in his manners and habits, and devoted to all kinds of intemperance, he never in the midst of social or sensual gratifications remitted his inexorable harshness. Yet, withal, he pre- served a degree of and respect, derived, perhaps, from his energy and determined character.

Fati K h h could not but know that to preserve his position it waa necessary to provide against Prince K h i h , who waa of no temper to submit to his ascendency. The vazh had as little dis- position to allow Shkhzkda K h r h , or any other person, to thwart him in his views, or to stand between him and the preservation of his authority. The suspicions of Fati KhWs aims, extending to sovereignty, had not diminished, and while the governments of the country were held by his

INDIGNATION OF RAMRAN. 33

brothers, i t wae manifest that but one step more was needful to attain the dangerous pre-eminence. Hed t had fallen into his power, the removal of the indolent ShAh MBhmGd and his son would have left him absolute. He had expended, in large, during the march to Her& an immense sum, and it was a common opinion that a crisis in afirs was at hand. If he could afford to permit SbAh Mamiid to have retained the titular dis- tinction and emblems of royalty, it was foreaeen that he must destroy Prince K ih r ih or be de- etroyed by him. The one must rid himself of the other,- none could divine whether to-day or to- morrow,--or in this mode or in that,-but all felt that the existence of the two was inconsistent with the policy and feelings each was known to poeeess. The retunante of the DGrM nobility had.oongre- gated around Prince K b d n , and constantly ex- cited him to rescue himself and father from the thraldom imposed upon them by Fati K h h , and to avenge the honour of the DGrG name by the sacrifice of so debauched and profligate an upstart. The shameless and perfidious acts of Dost Mgiho- med K h h roused in the prince's bosom the direst feelings of revenge' and indignation ; nor were tbey softened when, in his consolatory visits to hie sister, ahe refuged to unveil to him until he had by signal vengeance resented the injury offered to her.

The vaz<r returned to H e d t after his unprofitable VOL. 111. D

34 AFFAIRS OF AFGHANISTAN.

campaign against the Persians, to recruit his army for a fresh expedition. He had fought one of his usual unsuccessful battles, and a slight wound, in the face, aa some say from a spent shot frOm the enemy, or, according to others, from the musket of one of his Kazilbiish adherents, gave him a pretext to abandon the field. Still he had made a noise in KhorasBn, and his avowed intention of renew- ing the war had determined Fat5 Ali Sh& to take 1 the field in person. It is said, that it waa urged to the ah& that Fati Khan was but a contemptible enemy; that any one of his s i r d h was sufficient to chastise him. The sh& remarked, that it was true, but that he was " faiz baksh," (prodigal in gib). The old monarch justly appreciated the character of his enemy, and knew where his tact lay.

The 8,ffiirs of Afghhistlh had become very com- plicated, and the utmost energy would have been required to sustain it under the pressure of attacks h m the east and west. Whether the vae'rr would have been competent to the task we can hardly now decide. Engaged in hostilities with the Per- sians on the one side, and the Sikhs on the other, his seizure, and deprivation of sight by Prince Kh- rfin, closed his political career,' and was the prelude to the enactment, in rapid succession, of as many strange events, and of as many enormous crimes and per£idiea as can be found in the annals of any country. The shout of Va& Fati Khan, as the knife of the executioner was t h m t into his visual

THE VUIR'S BROTHERS. 36

organs, wae that of the expiring Afghan monarchy. The absolute power he ooveted, he may be almost

I said to have neglected to seize when within hie grasp, but he bequeathed to his brethren the ample means of securing their independence, and at the same time of avenging him. Few of the vaz'u's brothers were at Hed t when his seizure was effib ed, and one of them only, FGr DI K h b fell into the power of Prince K h r k the others eeqping. Confined for some time, on taking an oath of alle- giance he was released and appointed mir of the B h k Zai A f g h h , a nominal, if not a ridiculous distinction. Hkji Khh, Khkka, who had signalized himeelf in the battle with the Persians, and had been carried from the field grievously wounded, was still lying in the care of the surgeons in the city. Prince K h r h ordered him to be brought in a litter to his presence, and much wished so gallant a man to engage in his service. Hiiji K h b pleaded his obligations to the vazh, and Prince K h b who could respect valour and gratitude, wru3 not angered. Subsequently f i r Dil K h h escaped to G&hk, where he set on foot, in conjunction with his brothers, levies to oppose Prince K h h . Hiji Khb, recovered from his wounds, joined them.

In the occurrences which followed from this period we may consider the vazir ae politicalIy dead. His brothers now assumed a prominent part. It haa been already noted that Sirafrbi K h b , at the time of his execution, had twenty-two eons

D R

36 SONS OF SIRAPRAZ KHAN.

living. It may not be improper to introduce a list of them. Serving for record and reference, it will also tend to explain some of the causes of the ex- traordinary contentions which afterwards existed amongst themselves. It will be found how curiously they were separated into groups, affected by their maternal descent. A history of the B W Zai family would illustrate the advantages and disad- vantages of polygamy.

S m of SirafrcLz KMn at the time of the d ' s skure , math their diqmition.

............ Fati K h h the vazir. ... MBhomed Azem K h h governor of Ktiahmtr.

TaimGr KGll KhAn ...... alein in action with the Sikhe. ...

...... f Atts, Mhhomed K h h slain in action at Peshfiwer.

... Y& Miihomed K h h in government at Peshtlwer.

3 Sfiltiin Mkhomed K h W at Peshiwer. ... Saiyad Mfihomed Khfin* at P d w e r .

...... Pir Mdhomed KhEn* at Peshdwer. ......... ......... t ShEr Di K h h at Henit (escaped).

...... FGr Dil K h h at Her& (made prisoner).

5 Kohm Dil Khln* at He& (escaped). ...... Meher Dil Khan* at Herfit (escaped). ...... Rahhm Dil K h h * at Hed t (escaped).

.........

......... Samad Khiin governor of KPbal. A s d Khdn governor of Dkra QhLE Khit.1.

......... JaMr Khhin* in Kgshmb.

t Mother, of the Miihomed Zai, principal branch of the Bdrak Zai clan ; d e m t pure.

$ Mother, Thou Ghiljl ; deecent good. 5 Mother, DGrG ; dewent pure. (1 Mothers, distinct, but DGdni, and good. * Members of the list living in 1839.

SONS OF SIRAFRAZ KHAN. 37

... Amir Mihomed Khan at KAW. Doet M&homed Khh* ... in Kiiahmir. T6rabBz Khh* ...... in KQehmEr. I s l h KhPn ......... in the Tehn country.

+ Jdma Khh* . . . . . . . . at Shiksirptir. +{ Abd6l R d d n K h t ... unknown.

t Mother, J6hehir ; dement considered by A Q h h ae impaired. $ Mothers, distinct, of inferior tribes, and the eons little regarded

in consequence. * Members of the list living in 1839.

CHAPTER 111.

K h d n ' a march to KBbal.-Dont Miihomed KhMe re1eane.-Pro- tests against MBhomed Azem Khh's inactive views.-Volun- teem to oppose KYbmr&n.-Advances upon KBba1.-AttA M C homed Khan.-Made MGkhtahC Dow1ah.-ShAh Wali K h h . -Shlr MAhomed Khh.-Replaced by WBfad4r Khh-Feigns paralysia-Sudden cure.-Intrigues with the S(lnl fictions.- Elevates Sh6h S6j# al Mfilkh.-Recoven, Kdsh&.-Supports Prince Kaisar.--Slain at P e e h i w e r A t t b MQhomed Kh& in- vites Sh6h S(ljiih al Miilkh.-Confine0 him-KbmMe revenge. --At6 Mdhomed KhMe communication with Dost MBhomed K h h - His treachery- Is bliided.- Sudden fall.- Siege of BBlla His&.-Eacape of Prince Jehhghfu.-Preparations at Henit. - Approach of MBhomed Azem Kh&.-Dost Mhhomed KhBn's discontent.-Proclaims ShliltEin A11 king.-Her& army marches to K&dahk.-Thence to Chah4r Awl&.-Precipitate retreat-Reasons for.-KhdahC lost to Sh& Mamiid.-MB- homed Azern Kh& invites Shah SGjah al MUh.-Sonteat with Shiih Siijah a1 Mu1kh.-AyGb Sheh made king.-Arrangements -March upon Shikarp(lr.-Dost Mdhomed K h h again pro- claims SatPn Al'1.-Return of Mhhomed Azem m&.-Dis- cusaion-Dost Mdhomed KhBn'e propoeal to Sultkn Ali-Md- homed Azem Kh6nes propoeal to ShAh Ay(lb.- Shltgn Ali strangled.-Sh# Stijdh al Mhlkh'e army dispersed.-Ingenuity of theSindAmire.-MQhomed Azem Khh'e preaence of mind.- Intrigues in his camp.-Evil intentions of Doet MBhomed K h h and Shtr Dl1 Khh.-Mhomed Azem KhWs retreat.-Expedi- tion against the Sikhs.-Ranjit Sigh's me88ureo.-H' 1s over- tures to the chiefs of Peeh6wer.-Flight of Jai Singh.-Dost Md- homedKhh proffers his eervices to Ranjit Singh.-MbhomedAzem Khtin deceived by YYbr Mahomed KhBn.-Dost Mdhomed Khh 's design on his treasure.-Af&homed Azem KhWs irreao1ution.-

RELEASE OP DOST MAHOMED KHAN. 39

Panic and diepersal of ht army-Ranjit S i g h occupies Pe- eh8wer.-Divides PeehPwer between Doet Maomed Khan and YBr Milhomed Khan.-Death of Maomed Azem KhAn.-His character.-Habtb Ulah KhAn.-Maomed Azem Khb's dying recommendation and request.-Ftir Did K h b reechee KBbal.- Hie plane.-Ayfib S W s infatuation-FGr Di KhPn'r intar- view with Ayhb Sh&.-Oppition of Shrthz$da Inmael.-Is slain.-Deposition of Ag6b Shilh-Retiree to Lahore.-Jab& Khh.-Hia career.-Defeated in Kbehmlr114.vemor of the G h i l j L H i e civility to Europeana-Slighted by Habib Ulah Khh-Dost Mdhomed Khan's attempto.-Hablb Ulah KhWs folly.-Defection of hie chiefs.-Inveetment of B& HiesB;r.

As soon as practicable, Sh& Miihmfid being left at Her& Prince K h b moved on Kbdahiir, held by hie deputy, and thence upon Klibal, which waa evacuated by the NawAb Sarnad K h b . Prince Jehbghh, the youthful eon of Prince K i h d n , with A t t i Miihomed K h h , son of the Mfikhtahiir Dow- lab, as hie principal adviser, was left in charge of the government. Prince KAmrb for the moment re- traced hie steps.

Ae soon as the tidings of the vaz'u'e misfortune reached KGhmlr, Dost Miihomed K h h waa re- leased from the restraint in which he had been placed, and a consultation waa naturally held upon the state of affiim. MBhomed Azem K b b , aware of the capture of Klibal, was inclined to consider the provinces west of the Indus as lost and irre- coverable. He opined that it was prudent to remain quiet in KGhmir, from which he conceited neither the form of K h h nor of the Sikhs could dielodge him. Doet Miihomed KhPn protested

40 MARCH UPON KABAL.

against so timid and disgraceful a line of policy, urging the duty of revenging the outrage committed upon the vaz'u, and the shame of abandoning with- out a contest the land of their fathers. Khhmir, he said, was but a riijCs county, a Hind6 country ; if lost, at any time to be resumed by the strongest. I n conclusion, he volunteered to conduct an expedi- tion against KQmrh, and to at.tempt the recovery of KAbal. Miihomed Azem K h h gave Dost MA- homed K h b specie to the amount of two l&hs of rupees, and bills for twice the amount, and allowed him to depart, with a few troops. It would appear, from the scanty resources placed at Dost Miihomed KhWs command, that the Khhm'u governor had little notion that he could be successful. He spared a trifle from his well-replenished coffers, and ex- cused himself from the reproach which the world might affix to his reputation if he sat altogether supine. Dost MQhomed KhAn marched to' P 4 shhwer, where he augmented his troops, and thence to Jelhlabiid ; here his funds, were exhausted, and it was debated whether it waa practicable to proceed farther. The case was desperate, as was the expe- dition itself; but a forward movement was decided upon, and the chief with his army neared KAbal.

I t has been seen that Atth Mihomed K h h , Biimi Zai, had been placed by Prince K h r h to direct his son, Prince JehlZnghir ; he waa now to be- come the antagonist of Dost Miihomed K h b . To be able, in any way, to comprehend the intrigues

A'ITA MAHOMED KHAN. 4 1

about to be developed, it will be necessary to ex- plain t.he relations in which he stood with the seve- ral parties engaged in them. Displaced from his government of KQehmir by Fati K h h , whose sister was one of his wives, he had repaired to the court of Prince ~ h r b , who, although he had ample rea- sons to be dissatisfied with him on other grounds, forgot them now that he might be held inimical to the vazh. With another, AttA Mhomed K h b , Alekho Zai, he continually incited Prince K h r h to remove the obnoxious Fati K h h . Invested with the dignity of MGkhtahk Dowlah, the direc- tion of affairs at KAbal was confided to him, Prince K b m h estimating, and perhaps justly, that he could not reconcile his differences with the B h k Zais, but forgetful that he might have ambitious views and projects of his own. To elucidate these, and the singular part he waa about to act, a slight referknce to the history of his family is necessary. His grandfather, ShPh Wali K h h , was the principal minister, or rnfikhtahb, to Ahmed S h a , and agree- ably to the constitution of the A f g h b monarchy, or to the compact between the DGrbi clans under which-it was formed, the office was hereditary. On the death of Ahmed Shkh the mfikhtahk set up Prince SGlim&n, the eldest son, was defeated by Prince Taimfir and slain. The first-born of the MGkhtahh, Shh Miihomed K h h , was recalled from exile by TaimGr ShBh, and installed in his father's dignity. He became known and celebrated as the

42 SHIR IKAHOMED KHAN.

MGkhtah6.r Dowlah. During the reign of Shhh Z e m h he was replaced in office by Wafadk KhBn, famous in Afghhis th as the Sad6 Zai Vazfr. This appointment, an infringement upon the settled order of things, was unfortunate to the monarch who made it, and led to all the evils b d misfor- tunes which afterwards happened to himself, and finally to the Sadfi Zai supremacy.

Shir Mihomed K h b , deprived of office, feigned paralysis, and throughout the reign of Sh& Z e m h waa carried in a litter, or hobbled on crutches. On the expulsion of the s W , and the slaughter of his rival, the Sadfi Zai Vazir, he became suddenly cured of his afflictions, threw away his crutches, and again figured in public life as the mGkhtah6.r. He now particularly courted the SGni inter- in Kkbal, paid great attention to mr Wais, and profiting by the absence of the vazir at Khdahk , in conjunc- tion with his Sfini friends, and Ahmed K h h , NGr Zai, excited a religious tumult, which elevated to the throne Prince SGjih a1 Mfilkh, then a fugitive in the Khaibar hills. The new sh& waa clearly indebted to the exertions of the SGni leadem of KAbal for his dignity. The MGkhtah6.r afterwards recovered Kkhmir from AbdGlah Khb, Alekho Zai, and left his own son, Att6 Miihomed Khb, in government of the productive province. The sh& contrived to estrange the feelings of the friends to whom he owed so much, and they conceived that aa they had raised him to power, so they were

INTRIGUES. 43

entitled to displace him. Accordingly, when the king had marched towards Sind, the mGkhtahiir, with his former confederates, released Prince Kaisar from the state prison of the Bala Hi&, and pro- claimed him king. With their new sovereign they marched to Peshliwer, where Shbh SGj& al MGlkh in all haste arrived, and an action was fought on the Dasht Pakkah, without the city. The sh& would have fled, but was prevented by the crowds behind him ; and the rebel leaders pressing forward, . unsupported, anxious to secure his person, were slain. The mGkhtahiir, his brother, Mir Ahmed Khh, with Khwoja Mghomed Khan, NGr Zai, a staunch adherent of Prince Kaisar, simultaneously met a common fate. The prince himself, so lately victorious by the strange accidents of war, aa a cap tive adorned the triumph, scarcely merited, of Sh& S6jii.h al MGlkh. It is just to add, that clemency was shown. Attb Mhhomed K h h continued in the government of Khhmir; nor was Sh& SGj6.h al MGlkh able to remove him. When the shih be- came a fugitive AtG MQhomed K h h invited him to Khhmir, if for no other purpose, to make a tool of him. The ah&, not perfectly compliant, waa lodged in the castle of Koh M k h , from which he wrre released by the vaz'r, when he recovered the valley from Attli Mghomed Khb. On account of the insults offered to the ah&, Prince K i h d n , al- though politically hoetile to his relative, conceived it due to avenge the injury committed through him

on the dignity of the SadG Zai family, by mbmit- ting the females of the B h i Zais at Her& to the embraces of mule-driven. From the above narration, i t will be apparent that a sympathy existed between the firmily of Attii Mihomed K h h and the SGni party at Kiibal; and there can be but little doubt that he now intended, by its assistance, to have made himself independent. A man of considerable ability, he had a fhir field before him ; but underrating his opponentp, instead of circumventing them, he was circumvented by them. Dost Mihomed K h b had reached KhGrd Kiibal, two ordinary marches from the city, and was hesitating whether to advance, when a commu- nication was privately conveyed to him from Att4 Mihomed K h b . Dost Mihomed Khtin, deceived, or trusting to his dexterity to outwit his antagonist, moved forwards, but circuitously, and cautiously, feeling his way to the eminences of B i m f i , to the north. Att6 Mihomed Khan left the Biilla His& with all the pomp and circumstance of war, and marched, as he gave out, to annihilate the rebels. He advanced on ~i&&ii, Dost Mihomed Khh's troops slowly receding as he approached them. On the heights he harangued his men, and denounced the wrath of heaven and the pains of hell on any one who should betray ShBh MihmGd, Shtihzada K h r h , or ShBhzada Jehhghir. With the m e breath, in a style peculiarly Afghan, he turned round, and in whispers, inquired for a Korb. The

sacred book was produced, AtG Mihomed K h h sealed it, and with renewed oaths despatched it to Dost Mihomed K h h . A succession of marches and countermarches, of slight skirmishes, and other feints, for a few days, was necessary, that a becoming quantity of oaths should be exchanged on both sides ; and that the confidential agents of the parties should arrange preliminaries. They ill-concealed the understanding, however enigmatical, between Att6 Mihomed K h b and the Bar& Zai chiefs. One fact was glaring, that the interests of K h r h were betrayed, and the safety of his son compro- mised. At length interviews were exchanged be- , tween the Mfikhtahb and rebel chiefs, and at one of these, which took place at the BG rj Vazir, a pleasurehouse built by Fati K h b , the former was thrown on the ground, and blinded by Fir Mihomed K h h , the younger of the vazir's brothers. Of the brothera with Dost Miihomed K h h all had exchang- ed oaths with the Mfikhtahth, except Ku Miihomed K h h , who, from his youth, had not been required to do so. Many versions are given of this affair. The friends of the B M Zai chiefs pretend that the MGkhtahth intended to have blown them up. Others wholly deny this statement, and regard the occurrence aa naturally arising in a contest for power between desperate and reckless men. The depri- vation of sight was in retaliation of the injury in- flicted on the vaz'u, owing somewhat, it is said, to AtG MBhomed KhBn's instigation. His schemq

46 ESCAPE OF JEHANOHIR

of ambition were in a moment given to the wind, and he withdrew to obscurity and retirement. He now residea at Aliabtid near Kkbal, unnoticed and little pitied. I t is remembered, that when gover- nor of Khhmir, the plucking out of eyes was one of his ordinary punishments. His calamity afPorded the son of Prince Kiimrh and his adherents the opportunity of admiring that the traitor had been entrapped in his own snares.

Doat Mfiomed Khin relieved from a formidable foe, or an embarrassing friend, was now enabled to beeiege the BQla Hi&. Pernicious, or treache- rous counsel prevailed upon Prince Jehhghir to evacuate the lower citadel, and to shut himself up in the upper one. The empty fortress was imme- diately occupied by the enemy. Batteries were erected on the plain to the east, and a mine was conducted from the houses at the foot of the upper citadel, under the bastion of the principal entrance to it. Intelligence thereof waa conveyed to the garrison, who were on the alert. I t wae sprung, but did not fully prove successful. The eituation of the prince became exceedingly critical. In the bloom of youth, and remarkably handsome, the vows of the fair sex of K i M were offered up for hia safety. They may have interested heaven .in his behalf. A night, when all was darkneeg and rain fell in torrents, enabled him, with his followers, to leave the upper citadel by the D e r w h Khh5, un- perceived. Filing under its walls, he gained the

DOST MAHOMED KHAN'S DISCONTENT. 47

KoM Kheddar ; and crowing it, took the' road to Ghazni. Dost Mihomed K h h did not pursue.

By an astonishing run of good fortune, Dost MQ- homed K h h had become master of Klbal, but it doee not appear that he was able to profit by the advantage so far as to march upon Ghaani. He won discovered that a more serious struggle wm before him, as Shlh MihmGd and the Prince KQm- din had marched, or were about to march from Heriit. The hope to contend with their large army might have been preposterous had not so much unlooked-for success already justified him to hope for anything, and accordingly he prepared to resist the storm impending.

When intelligence of the p o d o n of Kkbal reached Khhm'u, Mihomed h e m K h h put his troop0 in motion, but probably made no farther remittances to Dost Mihomed K h h . As elder brother, and representative of the family, he could not allow, as he conceited, the takht, or' capital, to remain in the hands of Dost MBhomed' KhAn, who might affect to coneider him in Kishm'u as a vassal governor. I t is not unlikely that thie sird% would have been better p l d - that the city had not been wreeted from KBmrh, as he parhapa never expected that his brother would have been able to win it. Doet MBhomed K h h , on his part, waa too ahrewd not to be able to penetrate the secret feelings of his elder brother's b m , and to be conscious how jealously he was

48 ELEVATION OF SULTAN ALI.

regarded by most of the members of his family. It also mortified him that his exertions and tri- umphs should only contribute to the aggrandise- ment of others. He felt that injustice was offered to him, while all his own ambitious ideas were thwarted. These he could not consent to forego ; and to che- rich them in spite of circumstances frequently led to perplexity and enthralment. Elate, perhaps, at his successes, he soon began to evince a show of independence of action, and ita first display was in the proclamation of ShfizAda SGltAn Ali as king; he naturally fell into the dignity of vazir. This was strange news for MBhomed Azem Khan and the rest of the family. This prince had offi- ciated as governor of Kilbal undershiih MihmGd with considerable credit, and was one of the Sad6 Zai princes, most respected for good sense and conduct. It is probable, that had he ascended the throne under favourable circumstances he would have made a reputable sovereign. As it was, his funds and contributions from one or the other sufficed to place about two thousand cavalry at the command of Dost Mtihomed Khan to meet the overwhelming force from Hertit.

The flight of FGr Dil KhAn to Andili, and his pre- parations to avenge the outrage offered to his bro-

ther, Fati Khfin, have been elsewhere noted. By a strange fatality, the royal army avoided Andai en ormte to Klndahbr, thereby leaving the five brothers with their levies in the rear, These,

PRECIPITATE RETREAT. 40

as soon aa the army had proceeded towards KAbal, appeared before KAndahiir, and summoned GG1 M& homed Khh, the governor, to surrender it.. He consented to do so, in case his sovereign should be defested at KAbal, and entreated the confederated brothers to retire until the issue of the contest should be known. They complied. Sh& Mi&- mfid and his son advanoed to Chab6.r Assit#, six or seven miles from Kgbal; when, abandoning their equipage, they suddenly decamped, and, by the road of the Hazirajfit, precipitately gained Herit. The counsels of SAlG Khb, otherwise known as Shah Pessand Khan, are believed to have occasioned this flight. It may be so; but, when it is aeserted there was no ostensible cause for it, facts prove that there was too much. Shfill M b h d and K h h had, of course, become ac- quainted with the dubious loyalty of the KAn- dahk governor; and the retreat of the five bro- them would be, in their estimation, a more portent- ous event, as it might be supposed they would menace Heriit. That this fear prevailed is shown by the haste made to reach i t ; otherwise, the enterprise upon Kiibal would have been worked out, or, if a retreat had been judged necessary, it would naturally have- been upon KAndahh, where the traitor and the rebels might have been at once crushed.

While the royal army wee at Chahk Assit&, Dost M&omed Khan, and his followers in the . VOL. 111. E

60 FATE OF QUL M A H O M ~ KHAN.

neighbourhood, were standing with their horses' bridles in their hands, and the advance of the force woul'd have been the signal for their dis- persion and flight. Of this ShAh MdhmGd and his son were not, perhaps, aware, and therefore listened to the evil suggestions of SAlG K h h , that the Diirihis' of the army had concerted to betray them, and to follow the example of Gfil Miihomed K h h at Khdahiir. Dost Mghomed K h h did not credit the retreat of his enemies until N&ir Diltiwer, a fugitive, and the only one from the abandoned camp, came and confirmed it. He then marched forward, and took pos- session of the empty tents. When the 'royal army reached Ghazni, Prince K h r i b , finding it entire, and that a defection of the DGrWie had not taken place, was willing to have returned upon Kiibal, but was overruled. The brothers at A n d S had not made a dash at Hertit; but, receiving ex- aggerated reports of the diwmfiture of the Hertit m y , they marched to intercept its remnants, and fell back when they found it unbroken. Giil M& homed K h h surrendered Khdahib, and his sub- sequent fate has been already noticed. It is hard to say whether he wafl a traitor in intention or not. He may have reasoned that " the ruyal army is all- powerful, and must succeed at Kiibal, wh'en the Andiili brothers will disband their troopa, or be deserted by them." Again, when he witnessed the extent of the evil he had d o n e d , how could

he h e his sovereign, or trust himself in the power of the implacable K h h ?

Dost MBhomed K h S s good fortune may be said to have won KAbal a second time. His brow

' ther, Miihomed Azem KMn, had amved at Pe- shiwer, having left his half-brother, Jabair Wlh, in charge of KLhm'u. He had no sooner left the valley than the Sikhs prepared to attempt its conquest. From Peshiiwer Miihomed Azem Khg, sent an invitation to the ex-king, Shah SGja a1 Mtilkh, to join him. This meaaure loses ita singularity when the existence of SGltih Ali as king at Kkbal is considered, as reepect for the SAdG Zai princes had not been yet wholly de- stroyed So important did MBhomed Azem K h b judge it to have a prince of the royal blood in his camp that he did not venture to move on Kkbal without one. ShAh Shj& al Mtilkh ar- rived at Peshiwer, and the premature exhibition of his exalted notions of regal dignity led to a battle between him and his inviters. -The S h b , defeated, fled, and found his way to ShikhGr. Miihomed Azem K h h now adopted the Prince AyGb aa king, no better being to be found, and, thus provided, took the road to KAbal. On the retreut of the Herit army Dost Mhhomed K h h had made himself master of Ghazni, in which he placed his brother, A& Mfiomed Khbn, very likely foreseeing that it would be the only hold he could contrive to retain. He w8s unable to

B a

62 EXPEDITION AGAINST TRE SIKHS.

oppose &f#omed Azem K h h , with his large army and treasures, with all the weight of the family united against him, for now the brother s i r d b of Khdahiir would have marched to support the head of the family. A good deal of mediation and altercation, of course, ensued, but it termi- nated in the acknowledgment of Miihomed Azem K h b aa sirdhr, and AyGb S h b aa nominal sove- reign. Dost Miihomed Khsln waa permitted to possess Ghazni, and the brothers, who had obtained KAndahiir, were judged worthy to hold it. J a b h KhAn, who had been defeated, wounded, and driven from Kiishm'u, waa placed in charge of the Ghiljb dependant on Kbbal ; Miihomed Z e m h Khh , son bf the NawAb Assad K h h , was appointed to Jel& labiid; Yiir MBhomed K h h and his brothers to Peshiiwer ; and the Nawkb Samad Khh , resi- dent at Kbbal, to Kohslt and HhgG. By this distribution the country waa fairly partitioned amongst the several members of the family, and perhaps most or all of them were satisfied, except Dost Miihomed K h h . It was now the common interest to repel foreign invasion, and to preserve the family statu quo. The former was to be apprehended from Herslt and from the Panjbb. For an infraction of the latter Dost MBhomed K h b was principally to be dreaded. In conse- quence of the recognition of Sh&h Ayiib, the monarch of Dost Mhhomed's creation, Sh&h 561- tiin Ali quietly descended into private life. His

SULTAN ALI KING. 53

enjoyment of brief sovereignty had cost him the little wealth he had accumulated.

Th; first care of Miihomed .Azem K h h was directed towards Sh'iarpiir, where ShAh Shjiih a1 Mhlkh was organizing an army. I t was deter- mined to march and disperse it. The several mem- bers of the confederacy supplied quotas of troops, and many personally attended. The army marched from Khbal, the new Sh& AyGb accompanying it. It had passed Ghazni, when Dost M6homed Khhn returned to Khbal, drew Shkh S G l h Ali from retirement, and anew proclaimed him king. M L homed Amm K h h was compelled to retrace his steps. Sh& SGlth Ali, on the arrival of Shhh AyGb in Klbal, had abandoned the palace of the Bidla Him&, in which Dost Miihomed Khan had seated him, and retired to the Bkgh Vazir. He still resided there. I t is difficult to account for Dost Miihomed Khih's conduct, unless we suppoee him desirous of creating as much annoyance and trouble as he could, or that there waa a concerted plan to remove Shhh SGlth Ali, who, as before noted, was a person of some ability. After some of the ordinary querulous discussion amongst the brothem, and the intervention of friends, some arrangement was determined upon, and Dost MA- homed K h h , protesting his fidelity, submitted to Shih SGlth Ali that to secure himself as sovereign he must cut off Shah AyGb. Sh& SGlth Alf indignantly rejected the proposal, and reviled him

64 SULTAN ALI STRANGLED.

who dared to make it. Dost MBhomed K h h had eased his conscience : he had shown the prince the only mode, under circumstances, by which he could preseme himself, and if he declined to adopt i t the error was his own. On his own part, he felt absolved from interesting himself about the fate of a prince who was himself reckless of it. He wieh- ed the prince to remove into the BQla His&, which he did, occupying his own house. M6homed h e m K h h next urged upon ShAh Afib the necessity of putting to death Sh&h SGltArt Ali, promising, if he complied, that he would in like manner dispose of Dost Mhhomed K h . ShAh AyGb had the baeeness to consent. The two sh& for the few days they lived together in the B a a Hissh, visited each other, and sat on the same maand. At length prince Ismael, with a servant, strangled the unfortunate Shih SG1tii.n Ali, when reposing, after an entertainment given to him. $ h a Ayhb now asked MQhorned h e m K h h to redeem his pledge as to Dost M6homed Khh. The chief observed, " How can I slay my brother? " It is as unpleasant to comment on such revolting transactions as to narrate them. Dost Mihomed K h h had reconciled his conscience ; and the &rd& may have presumed that he was guiltless of a crime committed by another. If one SidG Zai put to death another they could not help it. The advan- tages of the perfidy they derived in the disappear-

ance of a source of embarrassment ; and the army was again put in motion for ShikhpGr. Taking the route of G h d and SMll, where

i t was joined by the Khdahiir contingent, it finally neared its destination. The army of ShAh SGj& al MGlkh melted away before it, but the sirdk waa detained some time in the arrangement of the Sind tribute.

The A m h had collected a numerous rabble, and a variety of negotiations were carried on, the DGr6.d~ anxious to get as much as they could, and the Am'm willing to pay as little as they could help. The latter also made an experiment to dil~perse their obnoxious guests, by making a feigned attack by night on their camp. Muskets were discharged from the thickets on all sides, to the consternation of the Dtirinh, who were well disposed to have given way to panic, but the presence of mind of their leader saved them. He did not move from his tent, but called for his muai- cisns, affecting not even to notice the matter, taking care, however, to issue, without kclat, the necessary instructions to preserve order. In the morning the Adrs of Sind sent respectfully to inquire concerning the s i rdus health, and to express their hopes that the tohi, or wedding, they had celebrated during the night had not disturbed his sleep. Maomed Azem Khih had purposed to have well riddled the treasures of the ingenious

56 EXPEDITION.

Amirs, but the intrigues in hi csmp made him unwillingly accept an obligation to pay twelve p i k b of rupees from them, three I f i of which was made over to him, and the remainder was never paid. The sirdk was overburthened with twasure, the fruits of his government in Kikhmh, but to preserve it he was constrained to carry it about with him. I t waa now in the camp, and Dost M6homed K h h , with Shh Dil K h k had projected to seize it. The discovery of the foul plot precipi- tated the retreat of M6homed Azem Khh, and saved the Amire of Sind from a heavy sacrifice of their hoarded wealth.

The sird6.r next set on foot an expedition against the Sikhs, who, elate with the capture of Khhmir, and the possession of Atak, were supposed to con- template ulterior aggressive measures. The spirit of the DGAi chieftains had not yet been broken ; the triumphs of the infidels were imputed to fraud and accident, and it was confidently believed that the sword would repel them, and drive them from their recent acquisitions. The defeat at Haidaro had thrown no disgrace on the valour of those engaged, and M&homed Azem K h h remembered that Ranjit Singh was not invincible, for he had inflicted a severe chastisement upon him on the TGsa Maidh in Kiishm'lr, when 6rst his ambi- tious projects led him personally to invade the mountain-girt valley. Great preparations were made for the war, and agents were despatched into

the hilly regions north of the course of the Kiibal river, to arouse the fsnatic population, and to draw out their gallant bands to co-operate in the great fight of the fsith. Ranjit Singh, with no less ac- tivity, prepared for the etruggie. That shrewd chief- tain knew too well the weak points of his DGrbhi opponents to neglect m i l i n g them at so critical a conjuncture. He was conscious that i t was easier to disunite them by artifice than to conquer them in the field. His agents had already began t o tamper with the brother chiefs of Peshbwer. It was represented to them that they had an oppor- tunity of experiencing the favour and liberality of the sirkhr, and of securing the possession of their territories in absolute independence. It was not asked in return that they should betray their elder brother, but that they should so con- trive that he should quietly return to KAbal. The Peshiiwer chiefs were soothed with the notion of throwing off dependence on M4homed Azem K h h , forgetful that in so doing they became vaaaals of Ranjit Singh. In another point of view, the chances of the war were doubtful, and they felt it to be their interest to confirm themselves in power, let what would happen. They listened complacently, therefore, to Ranjit Singh's over- tures, and clandestinely entered into communica- tions with him. M4homed h e m K h h eventually marched from KAbal, and, taking the route of Jelhlabid and the pass of Karapa, arrived at Min-

68 DELUSIVE LETTERS.

chin$ where he deposited his treasures. He then orossed the river of KAbal, and reached Peehhwer. Dost MBhomed Khan attended the army, and the halt at this place led to the loss of his old Sikh friend, Jai Singh. The advanced detachments of the D h U and Sikh armies had approached near enough to each other for occasional skirmishes to happen. One day, some thirty Sfkh heads were brought in, and affixed to the house of Jai Singh. He accepted the act as a warning to decamp, and fled to the Sikh army. He was afterwards slain in the Panjiib.

Dost MQhomed K h h , aware that his brothers of Peshiiwer had an underetanding with the enemy, signified to the elder, ~ k r Mdhomed K h h , his desire of becoming an accomplice. Y& Miihomed K h h did not fail to encourage him or to boast to the Sikhs the extent of his services in securing to their interest the moat warlike of the sirdiir's bro- thers. Ranjit Singh had now crossed the Atak, and Miihomed Azem Khdn was encamped at NoshLra. Negotiations, so fatal to DGrbis, were carried on, and Yiir MMQhomed KhPn, on the part of the sir- d&r, was in the Sikh camp. What could be ex- pected from such an envoy? Either wilfully, or at the dictation of the Sikhs, he wrote delusive letters to Miihomed Azem K h b , and informed him that it was contemplated to seize his h h m and treasure at Minchini. The treasure was a constant source of solicitude to the ill-fated sirdk.

DESmNS UPON MINCHINI. 60

H e was compelled to carry it with him, and then had difficulty to preserve it.

Dost M & d K h h stands again accused of having directed his unhallowed attention to it. A sharp action had taken place on the opposite side of the river, between a portion of the Sikh troops and the levies of the Yusef Zai districts. Ranjit S i g h waa in person at the contest, and although it is pretended that he crowd the river on a hunt- ing excursion, and accident brought about the eon- flid, yet the fact of his having passed seemed to countenance the report of deeigns upon Minchini and the treasure. Mhhomed Azem K h h was in sore u n e h e s s of mind, he wept, tore his beard, and inveighed bitterly against the treason of his bre- thren. He foresaw the disgrace of retiring with- out a struggle from the field; nor could he endure the reflection that his wives and treasure should fall into the hands of k j i t Singh. Undetermined whether to stand his ground or to retreat; now de- ciding upon the one, now upon the other alter- native, his indecision was communicated to his army. The infection spread, and augmented to panic. The dark ehades of night magnified the existing doubt and terror; the whole camp was in movement. All were packing up and deserting it as a haunted spot, without any one knowing why. The morning came, but the m y no longer ex- isted. The unfortunate Miihomed Azem Khln collected its wrecks, and picking up his h h m and

60 DEATH OF A m KHAN.

wealth at Minchini, crossed the Momand hills, and regained the valley of Jeldabiid. The object of Ranjit Singh being obtained, he had no farther need of Yar Miihomed K h h , and dismissed him to join his fugitive brothers, and to plot fresh mischief. The Sikh chief entered Peshiiwer, but so excited was the state of public feeliAg throughout the country that he did not think prudent to retain it, Yk Mihomed K h h and Dost M6homed K h h were privately sent for, and they repaired to PeshA- wer from the D G r a camp at Diika Ranjit Singh rewarded their treason to their brother and their services to himself by dividing the territory of Peshiiwer equally between them, very expertly placing Dost Mfiomed K h h in an antagonist posi- tion to the brothers of Y4r Mihomed K h h , and thereby providing for the support of strife and dissensions amongst them. Dost Mihomed K h h for some time resided at Hashtnagar, not ashamed to be indebted for territory to Ranjit Singh. M& homed Azem K h h , exhausted by vexation, fell into a dysentery, which carried him to the grave. He may be truly said to have died broken-hearted. I t may be useless to speculate on what did not occur. We shall not inquire, therefore, what might have been the state of affairs had he adhered to his original intention of contenting himself with Kbhmsr ; or if, when Dost Mihomed K h h had won KAbal, he had permitted him to have retained it. No doubt a knowledge of his younger brother's

HIS CHARACTER. 61

character influenced him, and he foresaw the chance of having the reaourcee.of Kiibal directed against him. Mihomed Azem K h h had considerable abi- lity ; was showy, munificent, and dignified. He was esteemed worthy of his high station. In private life he was free, social and devoted to pleasure, but not at the expense of business. His qualities were compatible with friendship, and amongst his de- pendent chiefs he could boast of many friends. He was succeeded by his elder son, Habib Ulah K h h , a rash headstrong youth, elevated in the full indulgence of his unruly pwions, and in the midst of all kinds of excesses. His vices and failings were rather of habit than of the heart, and to atone for them he possessed indomitable personal bravery and lavish generosity. Unfortunately he had reck- lessness in place of judgment, and was utterly unfit to contend with his keen and rapacious uncles, in the struggle which it required no prophetical skill to divine they would excite. The dying father, conscious of his son's incapacity and want of discretion, recommended him to the care of his uncle, Jab& K h b ; he placed their hands within each other, and conjured his brother to supply his place as father, while he implored his son .to wipe off the disgrace he had suffered before the Sikhs.

The intelligence of the dangerous dieorder of Mfiomed Azem K h h had brought FGr Dil KhAn from K&ndah&. The aha , of the sirdir's creation, AyGb, will not have been fo rgo t t~ . He still re-

62 PUB DL KHAN.

sided in the BBlla His&. On the demise of Mk homed Azem Khh , the Sh&Mda Ismael, the in- strument previously of removing Shah SGlt6.n Ali, intreated his Wher to arise and seize the treasures of the departed chief. There were not wanting many who would have aided in the enterprise. The indolent and corpulent AyGb rebuked his son as a blockhead, who, to no purpose, assured him that it waa the only mode of preserving himself against the evil intentions of f i r Dil K h b . S h b k d a Ismael, finding his father deaf to all his representations, left the city on pretence of a pleasure-party to h j i t a k , bd in reality intending to retire to Peshiiwer. The firther, apprised thereof, sent after him, and induced hi return. The plans of FGr Dil K h h were no mcret, and very many persons wished the sh& to take precautionary meaeures, offering to support him in case he did. The infatuated prince was ac- customed to revile such advisers, and affected to disbelieve what they reported to him. At length the sirds;r intimated to the sh& his intention of making a visit to him in the B 6 h H S . The sh& consented, and merely ordered that the sirdh only should be admitted within the entranmgate of the fortrega In the morning the sird% appsared at the gate, and his followers, K o h i s W principally, rushed in and filleil the bazh Araba. On reaching the entrance of the palace another effort was made to exclude the armed followers of the sirdh, but another rush introduced them, and they spread over

DEATH OF ISMAEL. 63

the courts. The sirdgr, and his brother, Meher Dil K h h , with a few attendants, ascended the staircase srnd entered the darbk apartment, where the shAh and his eon, Prince Ismael, were seated. Sahtationa were exchanged, and some loose conversation took place, until the s i r d h began to motion with their eyea to each other, and to their followens. It may be presumed, that Prince Ismael perceived the signs, for he seized his carbine, laying before him, and pmmmted it at the sir&. The Kohisthb, who had surrounded the hther and son, were able to turn the direction of the carbine, bht a KohistM was killed, and others were wounded by its die- charge. The unfortunate prince was immediately shot by the companions of the man slain, the shflh was made prisoner, and the palace became a scene of plunder. One Hkji Ali, who is also reported to have shot the prince, despoiled the shah of his rai- men@ and olad him in his own ; then, by the sird6.8~ orders, placed him behind himself on a horse, and carried him off to the BGj Vaz'n. A Angolac spectacle was offered to the people of the city ae HQi Ali bore the degraded monarch along the atwets, but they had become familiar with e x t m ordinary events and regarded them with apathy. The s i rdh , when they had given the orders, conse- quent on the feat they had performed, returned to their dwellings in the city with the same compo- sure after the deposition of a monarch aa if they had been enjoying a morning's ride. The delusion

64 JABA. KHAN.

of royalty which invested Shlh AyGb was too appa- rent to deceive any one, and i t seemed as if the mock dignity had been conferred upon him pur- posely to bring it and the Sad6 Zai family into con- tempt. FGr Dil K h b terminated the farce, and did not feel himself bound to tolerate a ahailow of his deceased brother's creation. Sh&h AyGb was treated with much indignity in the BG j Vazir, and it was wished to have tortured him that he might surrender treasure. By intervention a compromise was agreed upon, and on the payment of a lakh of rupees the sh&h was released, and had liberty to go where he might list. Mtihomed Z e m h K h b on this occa- sion behaved generously, and put the unfortunate prince in a condition to travel to Lahore with com- fort. Ranjit Singh allowed him one thousand ru- pees per mewewz. Hi8 brother, S h k b d a Ibriihim, who resided at Peshiiwer, was enabled, on news reaching of the events at KBbal, to retire across the At& with his family and wealth entire. I t may be noted also, that the NawBb J a b k K h h privately conveyed to Shah AyGb intelligence of his danger.

Jab& Khh, commonly called the nawlb, from having held the government of DCra GhM K h b , was one of the more elderly of the sons of Si- rafrb K h h , but having lost his mother at an early age, his education and fortune were for some time neglected. Mghomed Azem K h h at length noticed him, and pressed his claims on the attention of the vazh, who appointed him succeaively to the

. LOSS OF KASHMIR. 65

governments of D6ra Ghiizi K h h and of KBbal. I n both offices he acquitted himself highly to the

I satisfaction of the governed, but not equally so to that of the vazfr. Besides, in common with his brothers, entertaining exalted notions of his import- ance, and affecting independence of action, he forgot to remit the revenues of his provinces. On these accounts the vazir more than once treated him with severity, and he was obliged to seek asylum with Mihomed Azem Khan, who invariably received him with kindness, and protected him. When deprived of the government of KAbal, he fled to Khhmir, and induced Mihomed Azem K h h to assume so suspicious an attitude that the vazir marched against him. A battle took place. The vazir, defeated in the field, rode singly into his brother's camp, and embraced him for having so worthily proved him- self a soldier, but expostulated with him on allow- ing J a b k to sow dimensions between them. When Milhomed Azem K h left Khhmir J a b k Khin was made governor. Five months scarcely elapsed when a Sikh army entered the province. With more rashness than senee, without forming his troops, he advanced, with a few followers, in front of the hostile line. A volley brought nearly all to the ground, and amongst them J a b k K h h , who had received five or six musket-shots. It waa with dif- ficulty they contrived to carry him off. No battle, but flight and slaughter followed. Khhmh was loet to the DlirQnb. In the distribution of territory,

VOL. 111. F

which succeeded the establishment of M8homed Azem K h h at Kiibal, J a w K h h acquired the government of the Ghiljh, dependent thereon. This nobleman has always shown particular civility to European travellers who have visited AfghAnisW and always expresaea his deeire that some political understanding may originate between KAbal and India He may, probably, in this respect, have

I

imbibed the sentiments of his brother, Miihomed Azem K h h .

The deceased sirdsi. in no way imitated the d* structive policy of the vazir ss to the DGrUl chiefs. He collected as many as he could about him, and by munificent donations contributed to improve their broken fortunes. His court was very respectable. His son soon reversed the order of things, and, immersed in dissipation, surrounded bimself with the profligate and abandoned of all classes. He conducted the government at first by means of his father's officers, but they became speedily disgusted, and either retired or were dis- placed. The counsels of the Nawkb Jab& K h h were, of course, slighted.

Dost Miihomed K h b did not fail to observe that a field of action was open to him, and he saw a hir chance of wresting from the infatuated son that Kiibal which he pretended the fsther had unjustly taken from him. His territories at Pe- shfiwer he consigned to the charge of deputies,

INVESTMENT OF BALLA HISSAR 67

and hastened to Kabal, where he connected him- self with all the turbulent spirits of the country.

Hostilities soon broke out ; and for some months there were incessant contests, in which Habib Ulah . K h h , from his superior force, came off victo- rious, and Dost Miihomed K h h fled to the Ko- hist&, or to Ghazd, to recruit his means and prepare for a renewed struggle. A t length Habib Ulah exasperated the N a d b Jab& Khh, by de- priving him of his government, which he gave to a dissolute attendant of his orgies, Nazir Ali Miiho- med; and W h e r alienated AminGIah K h k Loghsri, one of his father's confidential servants, and a person of the highest influence, by seeking to destroy him. The reeults were, that the Nawib J a b k K h h in- clined to the cauee of Dost Mdhomed K h h , who again appeared in the field, and that, in an action fought on the Dasht Kergah, near the city, AmhG- lah Khb, and his aseociates, went over to him in a body. Habib Ulah K h h defeated, retired within the B a a Hi&, which, Dost MBhomed K h h , taking posseseion of the city, immediately invested.

CHAPTER IV.

The KPndah6r sird6re march to the aid of Habib Ulah Khh.- Dost Mdhomed K h h retirea-Seizure of Habtb Ulah K h h - Dost MBhomed KhCn aeserte himself his a v e n g e r . 4 state of KAba1.-Favourable d i e t i o n e to Dost Mdhomed Khiin.-The Kbdahir s u ~ deeiroue to necure and blind him. -Saved by HAji K h b . - New anungementa - HAji KhMs ik&.-En- gages in Doet MBhomed W s service.- S U h Mghomed Khlin'e errore.-Hie lax government.-Besieged by Dost Mbho- med Khiin. -Retires to Peuwer . - Ahmed SW.-His pre- tension&- His euccens with the Yushf Z&-Offends the Pe- shPwer uidha - Is betrayed by them. - New claims of Dost Mdhomed Khb'e brothere.-Reduction of ZGrmet.--Return to KBbal, and welcome.-Saiyad Ahmed S h s s movements.-Doat Mdhomed Khh'e assistance to his Peah4wer brothers. -Extra- vaganciea of Hablb Ulah Khh.-His fbllowers seduced by Dort M&omed KhPn. - Diimfiture of the NawAb Jab& Kh&.- March of Doat MOhomed Khin to Taghow.-His apprehensions of Maz6lah.-Death of Maziilah.-Designs on Jehb&d.-De- feetion in Dost Mbhomed KhWs army. - Arrangements. - Oatha - Reeumption of the Ghilji government. - Remarks on Dost MBhomed Khsn's character. - His talents fir business. - His admidhation.-Projects of Shbh SGj4h-al-M&M.-Senti- ments of the people. - Of Doet Mdhomed Khiin. - Proposal to a m m e royalty rejeded. - Arrival of G o n from KGndbz. - V i t of Mlr Alam Kh&. - Views on Bdjor. - Rumours and r e p o d

THE brother chiefs at K h d a h h and Peshiiwer bad not been indifferent to the events passing at

SEIZURE OF HABIB UWH KHAN. 69

Klibal. I t neither accorded with their feelings nor policy that Dost Miihomed K h h should obtain the county, or what remained of the treasure of their deceased brother. Circumstances had not allowed them to act before ; or so long as Habib Ulah K h h was the victor so much necessity for movement did not exist. Now that he was besieged, it behoved them to take prompt measures. Shir Dil K h h , with his brothers, hastened to KAbal, on the plea of assisting Habib Ulah K h h A variety of desultory action6 followed, interluded by overtures and negotiations, and Dost Miihomed Khtln was ultimately compel- led to fly to the Kohisan. The Khdah6.r chiefi congratulated Habib Ulah K h h ; and assuring him that he might always depend upon their aid against the evil designs of Dost Miihomed K h b , intimated their intention of returning to Khdahh . They joined their pbh-khha, fixed at Alhbiid, without the city. Habib Ulah paid them, as he thought, a farewell visit, when he was seized by Meher Dil K h h , and instantly smuggled off to a caetle in Lo- ghar, belonging to Khodli Nazzar, a Ghilji, and confidential minister of the brothers. The perfidi- ous uncles as instantly mounted, and took poseee- sion of the city and BAlla Hiss&. I t need not be remarked, that what remained of the treasure fell into their hands. Neither did they scruple, on the score of delicacy, as to the means of eliciting it. It is possible that Shir Dil K h h may have contemplated the retention of Kbl , but a little

70 BAD STATE OF KABAL.

experience proved it was not practicable. Dost Mghomed K h h was again in arms, as the avenger of Habib Ulah K h h , and the oppremive meaaurea of Khodk Namar, or M h B , as commonly called, intrusted with the charge of the city, had estranged the good-will of all. The brother chide of PeshC wer had eventually reached Kkbal, and a strange medley of counsels and consultations prevailed. It would be imposeible to detail the proceedings of this period, or the intrigues canied on. The dX- ferences of the several brothere p r o d u d a chaw of confusion, and although nothing waa wttled amonget themselves, many of their partisans were involved in disaster. Their followere have been

. engaged in deadly strife when the rival leaders were sitting together over a plate of chemea. The settlement of their pretensions was ultimately au- celerated by a manifestation of public feeling. The state of Kkbal must have been terrific ; and the re- flecting at last began to think aa to what course they should adopt to terminate it. The J G h b and the Shim community determined to support Dost Mhhomed Kh& and that chief secretly re- paired to the city, and entered into engagements with them. During the consultations that had paesed between the brothers it had been decided to put to death, or to blind, Dost Miihomed K b h ; and on one occasion, when he had been allured to an interview, he had been placed in a cham- ber, and the door had been chained. Compunc-

NEW ARW~EMENTS. 71

tion, or the i n ~ ~ o n of some one, saved him, and he left the house unconscious of the danger he had been exposed to. Now that it was known that the S h h community had espoused his cause, etrenuone efforts were made again to secure his person and to blind him, if no more. Dost ML homed KhWs extreme caution was overcome, and he came, intending to have an interview with his brothers. He was about to have entered the apart- ment where hie fate would have been sealed, when Hij i K h h , in the secret, motioned him to retire. He did so, mounted his horse and galloped off. The Kh&a eoldier of fortune, in the service a t this time of Shir Dil K h h , was able to discern that, backed by KazilbLh influence, Dost M& homed K h h had every chance of establishing himself. He had ever, from his acquaintance at Heriit, had certain sympathies with him, and now he had determined to join his fortunes with thoee of Dost Miihomed K h b . It was felicitous to pre- h e the connexion by a signal emice. The de- lusive arrangements tendered by the brothere to their kinsman with the view of betraying him, were converted into effective and real ones by the force of circumstances. It had been decided, as treachery had failed, to have had another a p p a l to arms; it had also been concerted by those willing to close the fearful drama enacting, to have slain one of the brothers in the expected combat, and by producing a blood feud amongst them, to

72 HAJI KEAE'S FREAK.

have led to their mutual extermination. The fact became known, and it waa felt indispensable to accommodate matters without risking the safety of the family. By the new basis agreed upon Doat Mghomed K h h received the Kohisth and Ghaz- ni, but as he had lost the territories at Peshiiwer, he benefited principally by the more favourable position he was placed in. The city of K8ba1 was given to SGltAn Mihomed K h b , the second of the Peshhwer brothers. Jab& Khh was rein- stated in the Ghilji government, and Habib Ulah Khiln, released from captivity, received the dis- tricts of Loghar and Ghorband. The governments of Jelidabiid, Peshiiwer, and Kibdahk were not affected.

When the s i r d h of Kibdah6.r were about to leave Kiibal HkjI Khh was missing, and it was discovered that he had retired to a shrine in the city, and that, professing to have become a fiquir, he had deprived himself of his clothing, and was seated, in great humility, with a langoti, or cloth bound round his loins. The s i r d h went to him, and asking if he was mad, conjured him to arise and go back with them; but he swore that he had renounced the world, and, as a Gquir, intend- ed to pass t.he remainder of his days in seclusion, prayer, and repentance. Whatever the s i r d h tl~ought of such assurances, they could not over- come his resolution, and time not allowing them much opportunity to reason with him, they left

SULTAN MAROMED'S ERRORS. 73

him behind. As soon as they were gone Dost Miihomed K h h was in the presence of the penitent fiiquir, and calling him b&b& or father, besought him not to desert him in his new situation, for which he was chiefly indebted to him, and entreat ed him to get up and become his vazir. Hi j i K h h set forth his abhorrence of power, and the great crimes it leads men to commit; but Dost Miihomed Kh&n was so earnest and affectionate that suddenly his scruples vanished, and avowing that he had always loved the sirdiir, he declared that he would serve him even if he lost his own soul.

Within the year after his return from Kibal with the plunder of his nephew, died Shh Dil Khbn, leaving his ill-gotten wealth to be spoliated by his brothers. By his decease Dost Miihomed K h h lost the brother most capable of opposing his ad- vancement, and the one whose activity and valour he most dreaded. S G l h Miihomed KhAn at K&bal experienced that he had a dangerous neighbour in the KohistAn. Unluckily for this chief, the union of the Kazilbhhes with Dost Miihomed K h h drove him into the arms of the SGni party too exclusively ; and looking upon his brother's friends as enemies to himself, he treated them with harsh- ness and contempt. The city under his adminis- tration bid fair to become the theatre of religious dissensions; it had already begun to be a prey to dimrder, which it may be conceived Dost Mihorn-

74 ' LAX QOVEBNKENT.

ed KhBn's emieearies fomented. SGlttln Mdbomed K h b was wonderfully fond of splendid dreeses, and his predilection for finery and embroidery had earned him the s u h p e t of 861 th Mghomed K h b Tillihi (the golden S G l h Mghomed Khh) . Not deficient in ability, he seemed ill-suited to govern, and while capable of business, seemed to dislike it. Respectable both in the field and cabi- net, he willingly fled from both to the pleasurea of the h h m . His public measurea were lax, and he left much to his officers. It is said, that during his sway there were as many hkkams, or governors, in the city as there were kGchas, or sectione. It required a more vigilant chief to contend with the restless and indehtigable Dost Miihomed K h b .

When, finally, SGlth Mihomed Khan received a message from his brother that he must evacuate the city, or dispute its posseemon on the plain, he exclaimed against his p d d y and perjury instead of exerting himself to oppolse him. Hie SGni friends, however, warded off one or two a t t a c h but their chief became invested in the Bala His&. As no movement was made from K b d a h h or Pe- shhwer for his relief, it may be presumed that i t was not convenient to afford it. Be tbis as it may, by the intervention of friends a treaty was concluded by which SGldn Miihomed KhAn consented to retire to Peshtiwer, and Dost M6homed K h b bound himself to remit, annually, one 16kh of mpees in return. As the Peshiwer chief evacuated the BUIa

P058E9SION 037 KABAL. 75

H W by the eastern gate the fortunate Dost M&

i homed K b b passed into it by the western gate. His part* and the populace manned the ram- park and in derision shouted after the retiring S G l h Miihomed K h h , " Khush amadid, 8 6 1 t h Miihomed Khkn, Tilltihi," or Good-b'ye to yon, Golden Sbl& MBhomed K h h .

Doet Mdhomed KhAn had now attained the first I object of his ambition, the poeseesion of Ktibal ;

but he well knew it would be disputed with him as soon as his brothers of K h d a h k and P d w e r were able to take the field. He had profited by their embsrrassed situation, and in place of assist- mg them had seized the occasion to aggrandize himself. To understand the events now passing it must be observed, that eome time previously the celebrated fanatio and impostor, Ahmed ShAh, had pasaed through these countries into the Yusaf Zai

I districts, assuming a delegated power from above to exterminate the Sikhs, and to muke himself master of the Panjib, of Hindosh, and of China. The shrewd chiefs of K 4 M and ~eshd&er, while showing him the attentions due to a saiyad, were not quite convinced of his divine mission ; still, while regarding him cautiously, they could not, as MGs- snlmhs, seem even to object to the crusades h e proposed. In the Yusaf Zai county he was re- ceived with perfect cordiality; implicit confidence was given to his assertions, and the enthusiastic population took up arms, eager to signalize them-

76 A E I ~ ~ ~ E D SHAH'S PRETENSIONS.

selves in the cause of religion, and to have shares in the countries which, as the saiyad told them, God had bestowed upon them. His unexpected success in rousing the Yusaf Zais induced the Pe- shdwer chiefs to open a communication with him, agreeably to their plan of being on the right side under any circumstances ; and so innumerable were the hosts yith the saiyad that his triumph, if un- certain, did not appear improbable. The saiyad himself was intoxicated with the results of his im- pudence and ehn te ry , and, aseured of victory, affected to treat his allies as subordinates. Their pique immediately produced a renewal of their understanding with the Sikhs, and in the battle which followed, by flying on its commencement they threw confusion and disaster amongst the saiyad's irregular host. The daring and subtile impostor retired to his Yusaf Zai asylum, denoun- cing vengeance on Yk Mhomed Khan. Dost MC homed K h h was in correspondence with the sai- yad, and it opportunely happened that his proceed- ings, by keeping the attention of the Peshiiwer chiefs engaged, were favourable to the Khbal chiefs designs. Hiji K h h was constantly lamenting that the discords between the brothers of the k i l y should prevent his marching with their united force to assist the holy saiyad Ahmed Shah.

I have already related the result of the com- bination between the brother chiefs of Khdahiir and Peshawer to l~untble Dost MAhomed Khan,

REDUCTION OF ZURMAT. 77

and the active part taken by Saiyad Ahmed Shah in preventing the march westward of the Peshiiwer chiefs.

The several brothers having treated with Dost Miihomed K h h as chief of Kiibal, henceforth relinquished their attacks upon him on account of his unjust claims, and assailed him on a new point, urging, that it was his duty to contribute a portion of his revenues towards the expenses they incurred in defending themselves respectively, against Kh- r&n on the one side, and the Sikhs on the other, while, medially eituated, he was at ease and in leisure, multiplying his resources ; it might have con- feased fear, if they had added what yet they felt - for their degradation. To their demands for money or troops, the chief always replied, that the first he could not give, and the latter he would send only when their territories were actually invaded.

'

No sooner had the KCindah6.r army retreated from Ghazd than Dost Miihomed K h h , at the insti- gation of HAji K h h , marched upon ZGrmiit, the country of the SGlimih Kh6l Ghiljis. The chief hesitatillgly consented to this expedition, being fearful, he said, to arouse the Ghiljb. I t termi- nated successfully; a multitude of castles were de- stroyed, tribute was levied, and its payment annu- ally settled for the future. In this campaign the cholera spread amongst the troops, and produced some casualties. Dost Mhhomed Khan was affected by it, and, dubious as to the result, conjured Hiiji

78 RETURN TO KABAL.

Khh, in case of accident, to conduct his wives to K&bal.

The chief returned to his capital amid rejoicings and illuminations, and he could never before have entered it with such pleasurable feelings. It would have been happy for him if he had been blesmd with moderation, that he might have continued to enjoy power so satisfizctorily ; but the spirit of ambition led him away, and his equivocal measwee soon diminished his popularity. He, as well as his brothers, had violated the family compact, and the frequent changes and removals from authority which had taken place proved it to be a fallacy. The suspicious light in which Dost Miihomed K b wae regarded by his brothers and relatives waa not leesened by his increase of power and means of injuring them, and henceforth we shall see how justly he waa dreaded, and how deliberately, but determinedly he progressed in reducing them, and following up his plans of aggrandizement.

The complete establishment of Dost W o m e d K h h in authority, in the year 1827, produced no instantaneous alteration in the distribution of the country. The loss of Kohgt and Hhgu made it necessary to provide for the sons of Samad Khh, and Dost Maomed K h h not interesting himself on their account, they fell to the care of Mihomed Z e m h Khih, who conferred on Miihomed Osmh K h b the town of Bala Bkh, and on Sad6 KhBn villages in the plain of Jel&bid.

THE VICTORIOUS SATYAD. 79

In the year 1829 Saiyad Ahmed Sh& made a serious attack on the Peshiiwer temtory ; in hie

L pro- he captured the killa, or fortress of HGnd, and Y k M6homed Khb, advancing to recover it, was surprised in a night attack, and slain. The victorious saiyad, who was in communication with FaizGlah K h h , Ha& KhAni, a powerful zemindk of Peshiiwer, entered the city, and for some day8 held it. The chiefs retired to Khaibar. The eaiyad

I conducted himaelf moderately during his stay, d b cnesing religious pointa with the mhllas, and c o s vincing them that he was not a Wiihabi, as, it would eeem, they had accused him of being. To others he unbosomed himself, and regretted that he had not seized Ktibal, to have served as a point &app& to his operations. With the fugitive eirdgrs he opened negotiations, and they readily agreed to any terms proposed, having no intention of ful- filling them. It was arranged, that the miyad should

I retire, leaving an agent at Peshiiwer to receive one ' Iiikh of rupees. FaizGlah K h h , and all others, were

to be respected, who had sided with the saiyad, and the sird&rs, as good MGesul&s, were to assist him in his' future struggles with the Sikhs. The sird6.m reentered their city, and a few days after slew the saiyad's agent and FaizGlah K h b . The latter, on quitting the dm&, received his first wound from the hand of Pir Miihomed Khh, the younger of the a i rdh. The preparations of the saiyad to avenge these perfidious acts, compelled

80 RETREAT OF THE SAIY.4D.

applications to Dost Mirhomed K h b and to Lahore for mistance. As the integrity of the Peshiiwer territory had been impaired, Dost Miihomed K h h sent the Nawiib Jab& K h b and Habib Ulah KhBn, with their troops, to assist his brothers. The =khs also, whose interest did not accord with the occu- pation of Peshdwer by the dyad , ordered a force to cross the Atiik. Some skirmishing happened in the Yusaf Zai districts, and the campaign, termi- nated by the retreat of the saiyad and the recovery of Killa HGnd. The Nawiib JabBr Khhn returned to Kiibal, and Habib Ulah K h h remained at Pe- shiiwer. Dost Miihomed Khgn was glad of an opportunity to resume the revenues of his nephew. This impetuous youth had attached to him eight hundred very dissolute, but resolute cavalry. The excesses committed by him and them at Peshhwer were so extraordinary that on many occasions the shops of the city were shut up, as in a time of siege. The s i rdh , perplexed how to deal with him, at length, by stratagem, prevailed upon him to leave the city, when, finding that it was not the intention to 're-admit him, he took the road of LmpGra, the town of the Momand chief SMat K h h . Here he remeed two or three months a compulsory and unwelcome guest, and having gutted the town, proceeded up the valley of Jelk- labiid. Mihomed Z e m h K h h fled at his approach, and repaired to Kiibal, imploring assistance from Dost Mglhomed K h h . This chief smiled, and

DISCOMFITURE OF JABAR KHAN. 8 1

thought he might dispense with territory, if unable to protect it. Habib Ulah did not occupy the residence of Mihomed Z e m b K h h at JelSlabgd,

I but passing the town, fixed himself about a mile beyond it, at the castle of Jehln Nemihi, belonging to M i Aga Jib, one of the ministers. Here he and his men lived at free quarters upon the country. They were allowed some time to pursue their profligate career unmolested, that the people might be well surfeited, and that the measure in ~ contemplation by Dost Mihomed K h b might stand excused. When the t.ime came, he sent MBhomed Z e m b K h b back with troops, and having tam- pered with Habib Ulah's followers, they came over in a body, and were received into service. The Nawib J abk Khan was entrusted with the charge of an expedition to the S6f;fi valley of Taghow. On entering the valley he was surprised in an evening

1 attack by MbGlah, the principal of the petty M e I leks, and so complete was the panic produced that

the troops fled, abandoning their equipage and the two guns they had brought with them. The Nawib was the last man to mount, but neither his en- treaties nor example could arrest the fugitives.

Dost Miihomed KhAn conceived that it behoved him to reduce Mbiilah and to recover his guns. He accordingly, in 1831, marched in person towards Taghow. It is asserted that the Nawiib Jab& K b was willing that the firilure of his brother's enterprim should extenuate the reproach attaching

VOL. 111. Ct

82 DOST MAHOMED AT TAGHOW.

to his own ; and that his letters, encouraging Mb- zGlah to resistance, were intercepted. The nawab's friends affirm, that his seal was forged. Doet Mb- homed K h b entered Taghow, and reduced the prin- cipal castles, while the jisqchis of hie brother, Amir Miihomed Khln, scoured the valley. MbGlah was ultimately induced, on the guarantee of Hkji K h h and the good MirssulmAna in camp, to pay his re- speots to Dost MQhomed K h h , and he engaged, while paying a certain sum down, to remit annual tribute. The abandoned guns were restored. Mb- zGlah K h h was one of the men feared by Dost M6homed Khln. He was not a great man, but one that dared to act: and at certain times example is contagious. MbGlah Kh&n afterwards visited Kiibal, but under suoh guarantees that his pereon was respected. Had he again come he would have repented his confidence. Dost Miihomed K h h , in his anxiety to be ridden of him, offered a reward of three thousand rupees to the person who would slay him. The reward wae falsely claimed; and Dost Mtihomed Khan waa so overjoyed that he paid the money without satisfying himself that the applicant waa eotitled to it. Some time after M%Glah was slain by a man, who came laughing up to him, and presented his musket: the wretch was cut down on the spot. I t waa never aseer- tained by whom, if by any one, he had been insti- gated. to commit the murder of his chief.

After tlie submission of MBzblah and Taghow

DESIGNS ON JELALABAD. 83

Dost' Miihomed K h h marched to LGghmin, and it became revealed that he had designs upon Jeliilabbd. Miihomed Z e m h K h h , previously informed there-

1 oE, had applied to the chiefs of Peshiiwer for assis- tance, and they, regarding the capture of Jeliilab4d aa the first step to the prosecution of the KGbal chiefs machinatione against themselves, determined to give it, and marched with all haste to BishbGlAk in the valley of Jeliilabiid, but under the shelter of the Khaibar hills. Aa the affair was a family one, the Nawhb Jab& K h b , Miihomed Osmh Khtln, and others, became implicated in the league to support Miihomed Z e m h K h h . At the approach of the Kabal force Miihomed Z e m h K h h retired across the river, followed by Dost Mihomed K h h . A day of skirmishing passed, and on the morrow, when Dost Mihomed K h b had resolved to bring on a decisive action, the NawGb Jab& K h h and his party flatly refused to mount, or take part m it. Paralyzed, and ignorant how fax the combination in his c&np extended, while threatened by a junc- tion of the JeliilaMd and Peshiiwer troops, Dost Miihomed K h h felt himself powerless. The Na- wGb Jab& K h h now aasumed the part of a me- diator and compoeer of differences, an office of which he is eo fond that it is jocularly remarked, he pro- motes difficulties for the pleasure of djusting them. He had, however, to experience that mediators may not always be acceptable to all parties, and that while eetting to rights the affiirs of others they

a a

may endanger their own. Willing to preserve Mi- homed Z e m h KhAn, he did not wish to destroy Dost Maomed K h h , and therefore by not enter- ing fully into the views of the Pesh6wer chiefs, who thought the opportunity a good one of reducing him to insignificance, he offended them as well as M& homed Z e m b K h b . Dost Miihomed K h h was, of course, irritated that he was deterred from seizing a prey within his grasp. By the Nawilb Jab& KhWs skilful arrangement the invasion was con- sidered a friendly visit, and the firing that had taken place a few fac de joies upon the occasion. Mhhomed Z e d n K h b was to present his guest, Dost Maomed K h h , with forty thousand rupee aa mihmhi, or entertainment fee. The Kiibal and PeshLwer troops were respectively to retire. Mk homed ZemAn K h h regretted his money; the Pe- shawer chiefi were enraged that they bad been put to inconvenience and expense to no purpose, while Dost Miihomed KhAn was indignant at having been baffled. The Khbal chief, however, intent upon drawing as much advantage as he could from the affitir, pretended contrition that he had marched upon Jeliilabhd, and pleaded in excuse his having listened to bad counsels. He in some measure re- stored confidence to Miihomed Z e m h Khhn, and at length, with his own hand, wrote a series of dread* ful imprecations on himself, if ever he wrested J e l l labdd from him, on a leaf of the chiefs Korh. He, and his brother, Amir Miihomed K h h , both

LOSES HIS GOVERNMENT. 86

put their seals to this delectable document. Hav- ing for the moment lulled the suspicions of Mb-

1 homed ZemAn Khiin, he returned to Klbal, and informed the Nawiib Jab& K h h , that having heard so many complaints as to his mal-administration of the Ghilji districts, he was necessitated to transfer them to Amir MBhomed K h h to bring them into order. I n this manner the NawAb lost his govern- ment. The conditions of the treaty of G h d , as to

I remittance of the Loghar revenue, had never been fulfilled, and the subsequent death of Fbr Dil Khan rendered the Kiibal chief very easy as to any future embarrassment from K&ndah&. The deceased sir- dbr, while unpopular from a certain repulsive man- ner, was clever, and equal to business, which none of his remaining brothers were. The confusion into which their affairs soon fell made them disliked by all classes; and Dost Mtihomed Khin was not displeased at the accounts which from time to time reached Khbal of their tyranny and mismanage- ment.

I have now narrated some of the leading events in the career of Dost Mbhomed KhPn up to the year 1832, when, for the second time, I reached Ktlbal. His course, i t will not fail to be noted, had been a singular one. Possessing a variety of talents, without principle, he had foiled his com- . petitors, and elevated himself to power, the great object of his ambition. To attempt to delineate

8 6 CHARACTER OF DOST MAHOMED.

the character of a man who has none, would be ridiculous. He waa good or bad as it suited his conceived interests. Still, the qualities which he derived from nature, or acquired in intercourse with the world, did not constitute him a great man,--the former were not such as rendered him capable of an act of generosity, the latter were not such as permitted him to repose confidence in any human being. Dost Mihomed K h b might have an ac- complice, he could never have a friend; and his power, erected on the basis of fraud and overreach- ing, was always liable to be destroyed by the same weapons. Many of his vices and errors were, un- doubtedly, those of his countrymen, and of circum- stances. His fortune had placed him in an age in which honesty could scarcely thrive. Had he been born to legitimate power he would have figured very respectably; his talents would have had a fair field for their developement and exercise, and he would have been spared the cornmimion of many enormities, then unnecessary. It has been remark- ed, that he never acted wantonly, or perpetrated miechief for the mere eake of mischief, and that he was open to shame, but it was doubtful whether for having done evil or because he had gained nothing by it. It is fair to notice the conduct of Dost Mihomed K h h in his new capacity of supreme chief of Kiibal, especially as it did him much credit in many respects. From his youth upwards he had been dissipated, and prone to all the vices of

HIS TALENTS FOR BUSINESS. 87

the country. Master of Kkbal, he abjured wine

\ and other unlawful pleasures. The chief of the community, it was due that his example should not be questioned. Of his application and aptitude for business there could be but one opinion. He had been uneducated; he now felt the evil; and by an effort, which required considerable resolution a t his age, overcame the neglect of his youth. He learned

I

to read and to write. In all matters where no political questions had force he was fair and im- partial, and free from haughtiness ; and accessible to all classes. Vigilant in the administration of the country, crimes became few. People ceased to commit them, conscious they should be called to account. There can be no doubt but that at this time Klbal was flourishing: stranger as I was, and observing the visible content and comfort that pre- vailed, I could not but have attributed it to the equal rule of Doet Mihomed K h h ; but I had afterwards to learn that so much good might be owing to other causes than his justice or care for the welfare of his subjects.

In the month of June accounts reached KAbal of the intention of the ex-king, Shkh S@h a1 MGlkh, to sally forth trom his asylum at LG- diha, and to attempt to reestablish himself in

I

sovereignty at Kkbal. The expression of sentiment this news brought forth proved, at least, that the people, if they had no fair cause of complaint against

i I

their actual chief, were not averse to a change in .

88 VARIOUS COUNSELS.

rule. I t necessarily produced much solicitude in the mind of Dost Mhhomed K h b , particularly as, al- though he did not avow it, he must have suspected the ex-king to be about to move under the sanc- tion, if not with the support, of the British Govern- - ment of India. It is subject for discussion, whether it was politic or honourable to permit an expelled king to organise armaments in British territory. Dost Mhhomed K h h , on first hearing the report, exclaimed, " I have not money to march an army ; the inclinations of the GhGliim K h b a are well known. I have but a few A f g h h I can depend upon." Mirza S a d Khln, HAji KhAn, the K h h MGlla Saifadin K h h , and others, urged upon Doat

b

Mhhomed K h h the necessity of assuming royalty, as well to enter the field on equal terms, with respect to rank, with his antagonist, as to obviate a conviction, prevalent amongst Afghhs, that those who fall under the banners of a piidsMh, or legi- timate monarch, may hope for the rewards of mar- tyrdom, and which may not be so certainly expected by those who perish under other auspices. The sirdAr's relatives universally and vehemently op- posed the project; and influenced somewhat by their pertinacity, and perhaps as much by the knowledge that the people in general treated the affair with ridicule, it was abandoned, Dost ML homed K h h observing, that it was inconsistent in one who had no money to become a king.

In the month of August, AtmClr, the Hind6

VISIT OF MIR ALAM KHAN. 89

D i d n of Miihomed Moriid Beg, the Uzbek

\ chief of KGndGz, reached K & b l on a mission. He brought as presents twenty-seven horses and twelve sheep, besides cloths, &c. His avowed ob- jects were with reference to the movements of the Persians in Khoradin, and the announced ex- pedition of the ex-king, Shah Sujiih a1 MGlkh ;

, to conclude a treaty, offensive and defensive, be- tween Dost MBhomed Khan and his master, to be cemented by family alliances. The KGndGz chief would engage to furnish, when called upon, seven thousand cavalry. There were many who suspected that the Diwln was merely sent to as- certain thoroughly the state of affairs at KBbal. That he intrigued with many persons, particularly with HBji K h b , under orders for BisGt and B6: m i h , is certain. No one was more indignant than the k h h at the bare mention of an Uzbek alliance ; and Dost Miihomed K h h , purposing, if opportunity permitted, at some future time to visit KGndGz, excused himself from benefiting by the condescension of M'u Miihomed Mordd Beg, of which he waa unworthy.

A few days after the DiwBn's arrival Dost M& homed K h h received a visitor of more distinc- tion in Mir Alam K h h , the chief of Bgjor. When foiled in his attempt to secure Jeliilabiid in the winter, the KBbal chief threatened to pro- ceed to Bdjor ; his purpose was diverted by the receipt of a sum of money, some ten or twelve

90 MIR ALAM KHAN'S DAUGHTER.

thousand rupees, and the promise of Mir Alam KhAn to come to Kgbal. He now fulfilled it, but under every precaution for his security. M6- homed Z e m h K h b from JelQabiid preceded him a few days, and he received the joint guarantees of =rza S d K h h , the Nawlibs Jabir K h h and Maomed Z e m h KhAn, HAji K h h , and K h b Sherin K h h . He was numerously attended, and his train, a select one, was well mounted and ap- pareled. Dost Mihomed K h h received him with great respect, and lodged him in his own palace. The Biijor chief, it appeared, had sent a daughter, very young, to the Vazir Fati Khln, who intended her for one of his sons. The maiden had grown up, and was now residing with the wives of Dost Miihomed K h h . It was proposed to give her to one of the chiefs sons ; to which Mh Alam K h h , looking upon the daughter as lost to him, consented. The BiSjor chief remained some days a guest, and altl~ough treated with civility, joy- fully took his departure, inwardly determined never again to trust himself in the power of Dost M C homed K h h . Biijor was a country much coveted by the sirdiir, and was the immediate advantage he calculated upon from the possession of J e l k labid. Besides giving him the command of the plains of Peshiiwer, and putting him in commu- nication with the fanatical tribes of the mountain- ous regions between it and Khhmir, from its remote situation and great natural strength, it

REPORTS IN THE CITY. 9 1

would admirably serve as a stronghold and place of refuge in case of a reverse of fortune. The distractions of the D h r M chiefs had permitted the chiefk of Bgjor to lapse into a species of inde- pendence. Mir Alam K h h , on discovering that Dost Miihomed KhAn had designs against hie terri- tory, had connected himself with the brother chiefs of Peshiiwer, who cordially united themselves with him, justly considering the preservation of his coun- try essential to the security of their own.

Numerous were the reports which, during the autumn, were circulated in the city relative to Khom4.n and Sh& SujAh al MGlkh's proceed- ings. I t waa also a current bmar report that the eirdk intended to seize Hkji K h b . In pro- cess of time, however, that chief started on his expedition to BbGt and B h l a n , aa I have related in the preceding volume.

CHAPTER V.

Researches. - Mound. - Diecoverien. - Th-leaf manuscripte. - ' Images. - Conjectures. -Antiquity of manuscripts. - Alann

of frienda - Intercourse. with MQhomed Akbar Kh&. - His sensible observations.-Anecdote of Mr. Moorcroft.-Dr. Gerard's sculpture.-Excursions.-Return of Hiiji Khh-His reception. -HPjI KhWs visit to Kbnd6z.-Hospitality of M i Mdhomed Modd Beg.-Revolt in BBdakdh.-Hdji KhWs Alima.- Treaty with MBhomed MorM Beg.-RQhmatlilah Beg's replies. -Disposal of Dkh Zanghi captives.-RQhmatGlah Beg's parting remark.-Release of Mir Yezddnbaksh's relatives.-Hdji Khhn's hints them.-HPji KhWs projeck-samander KhGn.- Dost Mdhomed KhPn's discretion.-HGji KhWe find determi- nation. - Dost MBhomed KhWs reproaches. - Hgji Khan's retort.-Entertainment of elchls and chiefs.-Theft. - Dost M4homed Khan's sarcastic counsel. - Hiiji ~ h $ diachargee his followers. -His imputed deeign. - HGseCn Khan. - Hiiji KhPn's remark.-Movements of Mir MQhomed Modd Beg.- Fate of Maomed A1I Beg.-Abdiilah Khiin.

HAVING now resided a year without interruption, and in perfect security, in the country, I 'was em- boldened to essay whether objections would be made to the examination of some of the numerous artificial mounds on the skirts or the hills. I was unable to direct my attention to the massive topes, where considerable expense was required ; still, the inferior indications of the olden time might

DISCOVERIES. 93

repay the labour bestowed upon them, and by test- ing the feeling which my excavations created I might smooth the way for the time when I should be in condition to undertake the superior monu- ments. Without asking permission of any one, I commenced an operation upon a mound at the skirt of the hill Koh Takht S h a , separated by a spur from the Z i h t Panjah S h a MirdAn. I t waa at the entrance of a little khol, or glen, called Khol Shams, where was a spring and a few trees: The spot I had often visited with picnic parties. Below, or east of it, was a csstle and garden, belong- ing to AkhGnd Iddaitfilah, already introduced in the narrative of my BhmlAn excursion. I had become acquainted with his sons, who interested themselves to forward my researches. The mound was composed of two stages, the lower and superior one being garnished with caves. In the centre of the upper one was a circular hollow, supposed by my friends to have been a hous, or reservoir of water. These caves had been visited by the in- mates of the castle, and from one of them a c o p per lamp had been brought, now in the possession of the Akhfind. I obtained from them specimens of the unbaked bricks which had been employed in the construction of the mound. They were sixteen inches square, with a depth of six inches. On one side was the impression of a hand, on the other that of a figure, or character, 4. Tradition ascribes the locality to Ziikom ShAh, an opponent of H h r a t

94 TUZ-LEAP MANUSCRIPTS.

Ali, and therefore does not throw much light upon it. In the coune of four or five days we discover- ed, nearly at one of the angles of the mound, a tkk, or arched recess, ornamentally carved, and support- ed by two slender pillars. In it we found the re- mains of several earthen images ; the heads of the two larger ones only were sufficiently entire to bear removal. They were evidently of female figures, and of very regular and handsome features. Af- fected by moisture, which had naturally in the course of centuries completely pervaded the mound, and everything of mere earth contained within it, we could yet from slight traces ascertain that the figures had been originally covered with layers of white and red paint, and that over the latter had been placed a surface of gold leaf. The hair of the heads, tastefully arranged in curls, had been painted with an azure colour. The recess also had been embellished with gold leaf and lapis lazuli tints. Accompanying the figures were a variety of toys, precisely such as the H'mdGs make at the present day, and in no better taste, representing horses, sheep, cows &c., of cement. The more important discovery remained. At the base of the recess were hewn stones ; and on their removal we found jammed in between them Nigari writings, on ti5z leaf. Their position, which bad clearly been adopted with a view to their preservation, had not secured them from the consequences of natural decay and the all-penetrating damp.

IMAGES. 96

The characters on many of the fragmental masses were very distinct and legible. It now occurred to me, that an examination of the corresponding angle of the mound might lead to similar results; our labours did not substantiate the notion. W e next opened the pile between the two angles, and it soon became evident that the space had been filled by a suite of small apartments. Some of these we cleared out. In one of them, which had been crowned with a dome, we found several images, of different proportions, but one of them eight or ten feet in length. They were all of pure earth, and had been covered with gold leaf, and were lying ho- rizontally. My Mfiomedan companions amuaed themselves in scraping it off, but the images were so saturated that it was impossible even to develop one of them perfectly. In another apartment, which had been alike decorated with mouldings, and paint- ed with white, red, and azure colours, we found three earthern lamps, an iron nail, and one or two fragments of iron. Pieces of charcoal were abund- ant, and occasionally a few bones were brought to light, with pieces of red and black pottery; the latter of good fabric.

I have been particular in detailing the results here, as they are thoee likely to be obtained in the examination of the numerous artificial mounds, which everywhere in these countries arrest atten- tion, and which have no doubt a common character. I could not forbear the conjecture that the spot had

96 ANTIQUITY OF MANUSCRIPTS.

been purposely filled up with earth, which indeed was evident, or that it might have been so filled up .at some crisis when the torrent of invasion was roll- ing upon KAbal, and it was judged necessary to conceal the temples and funereal localities to pre- serve them from desecration. The fragments of writing elicited have a degree of value, since the researches of Mr. Prinsep have arranged, in a tabu- lar form, the Niigari characters in use at various epochs. For our own we cannot claim a very high antiquity. If our preceding surmises have founda- tion, the locality may have been abandoned and concealed at the inroad of Sabaktegh'm Khh, the founder of the Ghaznavi dynasty.

My researches became the subject of conversation in the city, and the son of AkhGnd IddaitGlah hav- ing sold the gold leaf he scraped from the images to a goldsmith, for something less, I believe, than a rupee, my friends prayed me to desist from such labours in future, urging that the country was bad, as were the people, and that I should probably get into trouble. I smiled as I essayed to console my friends, and to point out that little notice would be taken of me so long as broken idols were the fruits of my proceedings.

Miihomed A k b b Khan, son of Dost MBhomed KhAn, hearing of my discoveriee, sent for me, and wished to see them. He was enraptured with the two female heads, and lamented that the ideal beau- ties of the sculptor could not be realized in nature.

ANECDOTE OF- MB. MOORCROFT. 9 7

From this time a kind of acquaintance subeieted between us, and the young sirdiir would frequently eend for me. I beoame a pretty constant visitor a t his -table, and procured from him an order, ad- dressed to the several maleks and chiefs of the Ko- histiin and Ghorband, to assist me in any researches I might undertake in those districts, of which the sirdk was then hfikam, or governor. I waa as much gratified as surprised to witness the good sense displayed by the young sirdk as to the nature of my reaearcheq and their object. He remarked to those about him, who suggested that I might be seeking treasure, that my only purpose was to ad- vance science, which would lead to my credit on my return to my native country; and he observed, that while amongst DGrXis the soldier was held in ho- nour, amongst Europeans respect was paid t~ men of " illam," or science. At one of thew majlisses, or mnvemations, when the subject of t o p was die- cusaed, a pereon related that he had atkuded Moor c p f t S h i b on his visit to DarGnta, and that while inspecting the monuments there a coin waa brought, to which the &ib applying his glass, observed, " Now I understand the meaning of the topee."

My intercourse, with the sirdh allayed the appre- hemions of my friends, and encouraged me to con- tinue fearleesly my reeearches. I waa always of opinion that no umbmge would be taken, and felt. asmud, that if I acted openly and fairly I should be Eairly. dealt with. Nothing farther. of consequence,

VOL. 111. H

98 EXCURSIONS.

was extraoted from the mound; but I may here observe, although anticipating the period, that at the close of autumn of this year, when Dr. Ge- rard arrived in Kiibal, I pointed out the spot to him as one likely to yield some token which he was desirous to possess and to carry with him to India. From it he obtained the marble sculptured slab forwarded to the Asiatic Society in Bengal, an account of which, by his miinshi and companion, Mohan La, appeared in the Journal of the Society for September 1834.

During the preceding year I had made pedes- trian excursions within a circuit of six miles around the city ; I now felt that I could securely extend them, and my steps were first directed towards the Koh D h l n and Kohistb. With one attendant, I made trips on foot in succession to Shakr Dam, to Ferzah, to Ismif, and at length. had pushed onward8 as far as C h b k 6 . My intention in these t r i p was not so much to examine deeply into the state and antiquities of the districts as to feel my way, and to become acquainted. To a stranger, like my- self, and travelling without tent or retinue, there is difficulty in procuring a house to pass the night in, unless, indeed, the masjit be taken as quarters. To pass the night without is neither safe nor eeemly. I had succeeded in forming acquaintances at all the stage villages between Kiibal and Chiirik&r, not only on one road, but on all the several roads lead- ing between them, .and wae certain -whenever I

LLETURN OF HAJI KHAN. 99

dropped in at any of them to be received with civility.

June opened with cloudy and windy weather.

I On the 8th and 9th slight earthquakes were expe- rienced. They were both accompanied by a rolling rumbling noise. On the 12th my old friend HQi K h h arrived a t Klibal.. He mattered money amongst the populace, and proceeded straight to the a i rdss palace. His solemn intonation of S a l h alikam was duly responded to by Dost MQhomed K h h , who took hie hand and led him into hie h h m , where he introduced the long absent k h b to his favourite wife, the mother of Mihomed Ak- b6r K h h , telling her that her bib6 (father) had returned. On the next morning the biibii was in- formed that his jakiiid of B-&n waa transferred to the sird3s son, Mhomed Haidar K h b , and that he should receive annually the equivalent of its revenue in money. . .

- It may not be improper to narrate briefly, in this place, the proceedings of the k h h after I left him at B h i h . I have shown that he waa in commu- nication with MG Mihomed Moriid Beg of KGndGe. His means of subsistence appear to have failed him, and he decided upon becoming the guest of the m'u. To appeaae the clamours of his soldiery for pay, and to relieve them from any solicitude as to their families at KAbal, he directed letters to be prepared, which he read to them, purporting to be from their connexions in the city, and stating, that

x 2

100 TdIR MAHOMED M O U D BIM.

by the khWs orders his agent there had paid them, severally, certain sums of money. To amuse them farther, he announced his intention to build a cit,y, also to break up the two idols, one of which, he affirmed, was full of diamonds, the other of rubies, citing, as a matter of course, the well-known story of Stiltan Miihrntid. Finally, unable to remain longer at BhiAn, where he apparently lingered aa long as possible, mistrustful perchance of the untried mil of Tiirkisth, he distributed eleven pais to each soldier, and started for KGndGz. He took the road of SkghAn and Kfimerd. The hospitality of the KiindGz chief wm unbounded. At every stage pro- visions of all descriptions were supplied in profu- sion, nor were luxuries omitted. Tea and sugar were served out to the A f g h b soldiery, and the mir's officers wearied themselves in running from tent to tent to see that no want remained unsatis- fied. On nearing KGndh it was found that a road had been made across the marshes and rice- lands which environ the town, expressly for the passage of the k h h and his troops. M'ir Maomed Mordd Beg was suddenly called away to euppress a revolt at Faizabhd of Bgdakslh. Hgji KMn in- sisted, as a point of honour, upon accompanying him. The Afghans could not keep pace with the rapid movements of the Uzbeks. They followed, and reached Faizabgd after its capture. The mh, on arrival, carried the place by assault, consigned the inhabitante to slavery, and their chief, mr YgF

Beg K h h , to a dungeon.

TWO ZEALOUS MUl3SULMANS. 101

The k h h , conscious of the MGesu1mh.d tendency of hliihomed MoAd Beg, had prepared to

I appear before him to advantage. He had converted many of his domestics into mGftis, kMs, kkhGnds, mfillm, &c., and had surrounded himself with a powerful Q'm. In all conversstions with the Uzbek chief this gang of impostors was present, and the k h h , constantly referring to the mGRi f i b or to the k b i sslhib, feigned neither to speak or to act but in consonance with the prescriptions of the Korh . The intercourse between two such zealous MGseulmb must have been delightful. The khsln sojourned at Khdfiz as long as his stay was agreeable ; and I have heard that &Iir Mhhomed Modd Beg repented of having, as he expressed it, shown the A f g h b his country. The visit had, however, proved profitable to the k h h in more senses than one, and he had received at sundry times from D i w h Atmar, and it may be supposed with the mWs cognizance, thirty-five thousand ru- pees. During his stay he had negotiated a treaty with the chief, by which KBhmerd, SGghh, and Ajer, were annexed to the government of B 6 d h , and he left KGndGz, no doubt having impressed Mir M6homed Moriid Beg with the conviction that he had secured a powerful and steady friend at Kdbal. On reaching Kiihmerd, on his return, he wished RBhmatGlah Beg to put away one of his wives, to renounce wine, and to become a MGssulmh. IUhmatGlah asked, how he could discard a woman

102 DISPOSAL OF CAPTIVE CHIEFS.

who had lived with him thirty years, and who had borne him many children. As to wine, he said, that Killich Ali Beg had licensed him to drink it. The k h h could not lay hands upon the property of the Kiihmerd chief with any propriety on this occasion, and was reluctantly obliged to forego it. He, however, had procured from him a large quan- tity of grain, on the pretence of payment, which he was inclined to have forgotten. It was urged, that such conduct would be disreputable, and suggested that a good opportunity presented itself of disposing of the captive DCh Zanghi chiefs, who would be gladly received by RghmatGlah in place of money. They were accordingly made over to him, and he told the poor wretches that they should be liberated in exchange for a certain number of female slaves. Rdhmatblah Beg accompanied the khan to the crest a

of the kotal leading from hie valley into that of SCghh, and after taking leave of him, turned to his mfrza and said, " H e has taken my son with him, but if the next year he crosses this kotal you may shave my beard, and tell me that I am no man." A t B h i b the k h h was joined by elchis from Bokhira, KhGlm, KGndGz, Shibrghh, &c. In his camp were the chief of Ajer, and the sons of the chiefs of Kghmerd and Eghiln. He had as- mmbled a goodly party of diplomatists and vassal chieftains, and had done no little businese, but un- fortunately without instructions or authority. It is most probable that the k h h would have been

HINTS OF HAJI K U . 103

better pleased to have remained at Bhi i in than to have returned to Kiibal, but he had no alter- native, and had received no satisfactory accounts of Sh& SGjah a1 MGlkh's progress. He therefore relewd the relatives of mr Yeedhbaksh, until now detained in bonds, and significantly told them that the death of the mir and their treatment was owing to the orders he received from KAbal, and that now they would show if they were men or not. Mir A b b h the principal, took the hint, and began to plunder kbfilas. At Sir Chishma the k h b still had scruples as to whether he should go on to Kiibal, and sent to the city for a sum of money and some hundred sets of horse-shoes. The circumstance was reported to Dost Mhomed K h h , who, without comment, ordered both money and home-shoes to be expedited. The chance is, that he would have been very glad if the k h b had made off. This singular man is accused at this 6ime of having meditated the plunder of a kiifila which had accompanied his party from BimiAn, and then to have gained Toba, whence he might, as con- venient, proceed to meet S h h S i i jh a1 MGlkh, or fbrm new arrangements. It was known that the aha had been joined by Samandar K h h , Popal Zai, therefore the place of dignity with the prince had been occupied, and HAji K h h would not have been content to have played a subordinate part. The junction of Samandar K h h was, in another point oif view, obnoxioue, as some years since when con-

104 HAJI KHAN'S RESOLVE.

nected with the s i r d h of Khdahdr, and holding the government of Sivi, the khAn had waylaid, be- tween Peshing and Shkll, a near relative of the Popal Zai Sirddr, and had either slain him or had delivered him to the K h d a h b chiefs to be slain. ~ h e k accidents may have deprived the sh& at this period of the services of HAji K h h , K h h During his absence the wary Dost Mihomed K h h had uttered no expression which, reported, could have been interpreted as conveying the notion that he had any suspicions of his governor's designs. At various times he sent purses of two thousand and one thousand. rupees to his family, inquired courte- ously after their necessities, and lamented that the k h h had exposed himself to privations. Many people in darbdr would state openly that the k h h was in rebellion, but this was vehemently protested against by Mirza Sami K h h and the KhAn BfGlla ; the latter asserting that he was too good a BIGssnl- m h ever to be " yiighi," or rebellious. On the khh ' s reaching Arghandi he cut short his doubts and mental deliberations by exclaiming that he was &shak, or enamoured of the very eyes of Dost Mk homed K h h . Leaving his troops m d companions to follow at their discretion, he galloped off towards the city, att,ended by a select few. His arrival and reception have been noted.

The resumption of the khfun's jaZdhd, a clever stroke of Dost Mihomed Khkn, reduced the K h a a chief to comparative insignificance, and paralyzed

him for the moment. I t would also compel him to disband his numerous followers, whom he could no longer subsist, and an object of consequence to the sirdk was gained without the ungracious al- ternative of a peremptory order. The k h h , by sitting on the gillam to receive the fiitihas of his friends on account of the decease of his brother, GG1 Mfiomed K h h , was relieved for some days from the mortification of presenting himself at dm&, and had an opportunity to consult secretly with his supporters on his future line of conduct. When he eventually renewed attendance upon the sirdiir, he aasumed a high tone. The sirdk up- braided him with the murder of Yezdhbaksh. Hkji K h h asked, if it had not been committed under his orders. " No," said Dost Mtihomed K h h ,

I never told you to take seven false oaths, and afterwards to kill the man. I continually wrote to you to give him an abundance of khelats, to mure him, and bring him to Kkbal, when, after some time, I would have behaved handsomely to him, and have released him." The k h h retorted, that it wae singular the sirdk should reproach any one on the score of taking false oaths, and inquired how he had inveigled and slain the chiefs of the Kohisth. The sirdh answered, by illam bWi or dexterity, for he had sent l o p of wood and not Korkns.

The entertainment of the several elchk and chiefi bought by the khkn was a subject of consideration.

106 TREATMENT OF A THIEF.

The sirdk did not look upon them as commissioned to himself, and declared that he had no intention to put himself to any expense. The elchi from Bok- h6ra was handed over to Badradfn, one of the most eminent merchants of the city, whose commercial transact,ions with B o k h h would induce him, un- willingly, or otherwise, to attend to the stray en- voy's kidmat. The elchi from Mi Miihomed Mo- riid Beg, and the chiefs of E g h h and Ajer, with the son of RghmatGlah Beg, being peculiarly the guests of Hhjf K h h , were left by the sirdk to hie care. While Dost Miihomed K h h did not ae- knowledge these people, he did not refuse to accept

' . the presents they brought. Amongat those from mr Miihorned Moriid Beg were four noble y&s of Bidakshkn.

In course of time the KGndih elchi discovered, to his consternation, that his purse had been carri- ed off. On scrutiny, the theft was traced to the servant of Hhji Khkn, who brought the morning and evening meals for the elchi's party. The k h h bound his servant, and sent him to Dost Miihomed Khhn, who declined to notice the affair, observing, that the guests are HAjI Khh's : so is the robber, let him act as he pleases. The k h h himself re- paired to the sirdfir, urging, that it behoved him to punish the man. The sir& did not think so, and said, " Deliver him to the Uzbeks; they may All him, and make something by him."

HAji K h h for some time did riot d idarge hie

hllowers, perhaps hoping that he might have re- covered B M h ; at length he waa compelled to do so, and his overgrown establishment was broken up. This circumstance was hastened by the sirdiir ordering some of the Khiika retainers to quit the Chehel SitGn, a large apartment erected over one of the towers of the BQla Hiss&, on the line of wall extending from the D e r w h Sh& Shghid, where Hkji K h b had his house, to the palace. It was pointed out to Dost Mihomed Khan that his discontented khan could at any time push hi8 men along the ramparts directly into his residence, and that he waa not secure. The demolition of Chehel SitGn was directed, and the sir& put in hand some precautionary erections at the point where the palace was connected with the ram- parts. One Nekho Mhhomed had even reported that he had become informed that some dark en- terprize had been concerted. The Chehel SitGn had been built, in the reign of Shiih Zeman, by Jan Nissar K h h , his governor of K$bal, that the prince might enjoy the view from it.

The k h b sat very uneasy under his degradation, but soon had an opportunity of entering into fresb intrigues, from which he cherished the hopes of gratifping his revenge on the sirdiir, and of ad- vancing his own ambitious views. Under the sir- dL's m, Mhomed Haidar K h b , one HGss6n K h h , Shhh S i w h , had been appointed niiib, or deputy governor of the Hazbajiit and B h i k n .

108 ABDULAH KHAN.

H&jl K h h on the occasion told the sird& that he had placed an elephant's load upon a jackass.

With this anecdote we shall leave the k h h for the present, observing, that on the return of the several elchis and petty chiefs to TGrkisth, Mir Mihomed Morad Beg resumed Kihmerd, SGghh, and Ajer. He farther chapowed SCghAn, and con- signed its chief, Ali Mihomed, the father-in-law of HAji K h h , to a dungeon.

During the winter, or while I was absent with the k h h in BbGt, AbdGlah K h h , the Atchak Zai chief, who, as I have mentioned, had been seized by the s i r d h of K h d a h h , was permitted by them to proceed to Kkbal. He came in company with &azh K h h , Ohtag, alike discontented, and was courteously received by Dost MBhomed K h h . To AbdGlah K h h was assigned a jighir of sixty thousand rupees per annum, and to R h d n K h h anot,her of twenty thousand rupees per annum. Ab- dfilah K h h had little to recommend him beyond being one of the few hereditary Dfirhi s i r d h who had hitherto, having attached himeelf to the interests of the Barak Zai family, escaped from per- secution by them. He was one of the friends of the Sird6.r Mihomed Azem K h h in Kwhmh, and had acquired an evil reputation for possessing wealth. Now that he had been confined and put to shame, his reputation adhered to him, and he brought it with him to KBbal.

CHAPTER VI.

Tour in Koh DBman, &c.-Ndnach1.-Mlna Jdhr Khh-Kotal Kera Kh-Tumu1i.-Killa Kohchh.-N%u Mir AlI Khb . -His conversationand travels.-Accident.-Shah DaraC-rai. -Bfz$di.-B6dak.-KAh Dam- ZirgarAn-Cave.-TdlGk of Fed.-Sekandar ShPh.-Persian Inseription.-Caacade.-Au- ricu1ae.-Killa Shah<.-IrtMif-Deli6tful view-Zhlrat Hbz- rat Eshiin.-Azdhd-Orchards.-Ta;l& of IstAlit-Miihomed Sh21 KhrZn.-Hie capture of Khbd-His death-blend K h h . -His execution.- 1etargitch.-Approach to Ch6rikbr.-Town of Ch6hUr.-Trade.-Deetmdon of Qhkha battalion.-Htipl&n. -Tbtam Dara-Shesh Bbjeh-Application.-Octogenarian in- valid-T6viz.-Doat Mihomed Kh6n'r severity.-All Kh&.- Hir recommendations to hie raiyats. - Canals. - River of TG- tam Dara--Conflict and aupnder of Doat MPhomed K b . - S i i l th Singh's garden.-Hiatory of SGltrZn Sigh.-His rim.- Plot of Mina I m b Verdi.-SiiltiSn Singh's adroitness-Ha- bib Ulah Khb's measures.-SGltAn Singh's etab-Seizes his ancient employer.-Malek I& Khiin's proposal.-SGltPn Singh rwaIlowii poison.-Jhh Ni&'.-Tope Dara-Simplicity.- N e w Perida.-Compass.-Fugitive of HGpjPn.46h Ydriln. Z l k t Derwiah.-Killa KhGrMn.-Inhabitants of Chir5kh.- S h b a k . - Sanjit Dam-Mbhomed JHar KhiSn.-Killa Mir Saiyad Wh.-Khbal doctor.-Objecta of excumion.--Kiila b- lend.-Plaii of B6grh.- Return.- Baloeh K&.- Wia- Apprehensions of people.-Reporta-Killa MGaa Khh-Ti- tarangZ4r.-KdUakh&.-Tope.- ChCni Khba.-Kia RajpGt. - Kotal Mdms. Khhfin. -Kill8 Iltifit Khh-Kotal Pbh ?&&.-Beturn to K h l .

THE return of Hkji K h h had reproduced my old companion Sirkerder Kamber, and I proposed to him a lengthened excursion into Koh D h a n and Kohisth ; to which he cheerfully consented. We accordingly made our arrangementa, and in his com- pany I started on the tour.

Passing Deh Afghh, Kill& Bolendi, and the vil- lage of Baraki, we gained the seignorial castle of Nh6chi, belonging to Mhza J f i r K h h , now aged* and blind, but once the confidential h a of the Vu i r Fati K h h . From wealth, acquired in the vaz'lr's service, the mhza haa constructed three cas- tles here, and has purchased a large tract of land. mrza S a d K h h , the present minister of Dost Mihomed K h b , married his daughter; and to this alliance owes in great measure his elevation ; in- deed the blind mhza advanced his son-in-law the sum of money which secured him office. He is sometimes consulted on affairs of moment, and it need hardly be said, having mentioned under whom he wae employed, that as a statesman he is clever, reckless, and unprincipled. Age has made him morose, while he was naturally cruel, and it is, per- haps, quite as well that blindness incapacitates him from taking an active part in public affairs. To our right on leaving Nh&chi, we had the extewive pastures, now partially under water, called the Cha- man of VazirabCd, from a village on their southern limit. Tracing their western bounds, we reached the village of Dbh Kippak, of one hundred houses

SHAKR DARA. 111

e n o l d within walls. Beyond this, crossing a bar- ren stony tract, we came to the Kotal Kers Khba , or Pass of the Bear's den. At its entrance we found a ruinous stone tower, formerly a choki, a few tGt, or mulberry-trees, and excellent water in a k&Gz. The kotal is rather a alight defile than a paw, and was about three quartere of a mile in length, the road, although rocky, being perfectly eaey to our cattle. At its western extremity was a tower, the station of officers receiving duties. Hence we had a noble view of the district of Shakr Dam, and of the plain of Koh Diiman. We halted a few mo- ments to enjoy the scene. On looking back we found we had still in sight the BQlla Hisdr of Klibal. From the tower, on either side of the road gently inclining towards the plain, were, at regular inter- vals, the circular foundations of ancient structuree, which my companions conjectured to have been towers, but which were rather sepulchral tumuli. They occur in some number. Having gained the level but sterile plain, we had nothing better to do than make the best of our way across it, and to reach the cluster of villages, castles, and orchards which spread before us. The plain, generally pretty even, had its surface fractured in two or three places, and we-crossed two or three ravines, in one of which flowed the rivulet called the river of Koh Diiman, which rising amongst the hills above G h & in the extreme south-west quarter, traversee the valley and rune along its eastern limits, until it finally .falls

112 NAZIR MIR ALI KHAN.

into the united rivers of Ghorband, Perwan, and Pangshir, below JGlgha. At length we reached the vicinity of the two KkCzaks, BAlla and P&h (the upper and lower), villages at the skirts of the hills. Above them, a little to the north, was G&$ where resides N S b Amir Khh. The three villages are all advantageously situated, and are abundantly d b 1

tinguished by vestiges of the olden time, in mounds and tumuli. I t was dark before we reached the seignorial castle of Kohchih, the first one occur- ring to the south of Shakr Dara, to which we had been invited, and where we were politely welcomed by its proprietor, N b i r M'zr Ali K h h . A capital supper was prepared, and we were lodged in the Mihmh Khha, over the entrance to the castle. On one of my former excursions, in making for KAbal from Shakr Dara, I had met the nizir, at that time unknown to me, near the Kotal Kers K h h a He stopped his horse and asked if I was not a Feringhi;

I

on being answered, yes, he much wished me to have returned with him, and pointed to his castle. I then declined to do so, and he made me promise I would visit him on some future occasion. The n b i r had been a merchant, and had also served the Sirdk Miihomed Azem K h h in Kbhmir ; owing to which he was held guilty of being very rich, and had been more than once required to disgorge part of the wealth he had acquired. To avoid farther demands upon his coffers, without absolutely pretending to be a pauper, he represented himself as struggling

HIS CONVERSATION AND TRAVELS. 113

with the world, and barely able to make his way. His castle, a very excellent one, was built by Ro- hilla K h h , Popal Zai, a man who in by-gone days of anarchy seems to have been the tyrant of his neighbourhood. He was slain by one Bbram, a t the instigation of Hiibib Ulah Khhn. From his heirs the castle was purchased by a daughter of the Vazir Fat5 K h h , who sold it to the nriiir for six thousand five hundred rupees.

I had not intended to have halted here, but to have spent the day at Shakr Dara, yet, as the nizir talked of detaining us several days, we thought i t seemly to remain one. On rising I joined my host, who was an earlier riser than I was, in a garden, near a reservoir of water shaded by majnhn Mds or weeping willow. W e commenced the day with a plentiful feast on mulberries and apricots, after which kabib, or roast meat, with admirable bread, prepared, as is the vogue at Heriit, was intro- duced as a &tar, or breakfast. W e had a good deal of general conversation ; from which I learned that the worthy n h i r had been a great traveller, having visited India, Arabia, Persia, and TGrkisth. H e had been at Biigdad, when Mr. Rich was resident there, and, according to his statement, had been a frequent visitor of that gentleman. The north- west tower having a very elevated apartment over it, I asked if i t were practicable for me to gain it, without incommoding his family. He obligingly re- plied, " Bismillah," and ordered the females of his

VOL. 111. I

114 ACCIDENT.

hiiram to retire that I might pass. While this was in operation one of the good man's wives ar- rived from Kiibal, seated on a pony, which being led near the horse of my companion the sirkerder, a very vicioua animal, a battle took place, in which the lady was capsized, fortunately without greater detriment than fright. After this untoward accident the wayward beast broke from his ropes, and fled from the castle. The nbjir's servants mounted, and, after a long chase over the county, secured the fugitive at the foot of the Kotal Kers K h h .

I ascended the tower, accompanied by a h h saf6d, the malek of tlie castle, to give me all requi- site information, and by another person, to attend to my wants while I remained in it. I did not leave until evening, being well occupied in taking sketches, bearings, and making myself acquainted with the country. Dinner and fruit were sent up to me, and I passed the day very agreeably. The apartment commanded an extensive prospect, and, for whatever purpose erected, had clearly been the scene of many a festive party, if we might infer from the numerous distichs written on its walls.

In the morning we took leave of our friend the nbjir, who detained us until some dozen eggs .were boiled, which he made us put up in our k b kGrzins, with a couple of Herdt cakes. W e pro- ceeded towards the gardens of Shakr Dara, which we soon reached, having the small village of Killa

SHAKR DARA. 115

SaGd (the white castle) on our left. Crossing a small rivulet, we passed, also to the left, the village of Killa Ahmed. Our road now led through a wilderness of gardens and orchards, the road de- fined by parapets of etones, and at nearly every step crossed by canals of water. W e arrived a t the large village of Semi, inhabited principally by HindGs, adjacent to which is S h k h Bolendi (the red mound), where resides Shih Naw& K h b , the h a a m of the district, or tilGk. Here the HindG D i w b of the Nawiib Jab& K h h followed me, and entreated me to become his guest, and I fear was mortified a t my refusal. A little beyond Semi we crossed a small stream, rolling over a rocky bed, called the river of Shakr Dara. I t did not exceed in breadth fifteen feet, but its current was noisy and impetuous. W e next passed the remains, still attractive, of a royal garden planted by TaimGr Shiih, and our road still threading through orchards, with the villages of Y&Gb, SGlimb, &c., to our left, we at length cleared Shakr Dam On gaining the open country we came upon the z i h t of Khwoja Wahidar JM, where are two or three large chaniir, or plane-trees. Soon after we arrived parallel to the large village of BizBdl, to our left, on the elevated side of a deep ravine, down which flows a rivulet. This place is picturesquely situ- ated, and is famous for the manufacture of vinegar. We next passed, also to our left, the large village of Bdak, alike romantically situated on an emi-

I a

BEDAK.

nence, and surrounded with gardens, vineyards, .and orchards. This place is included in the tiilhk of K&h Dara. On the side of the ravine opposite ie seated the smaller village of Killa K&i. On the

line of road east of S d a k is the castle called Killa Whil, where I halted and sketched the village. Hence we proceeded to the large village of K&h Dam, which has an abundance of gardens and vine- yards, and is the capital of a tAlGk, enjoyed in jQhir by M'ha Sad K h h . The rivulet here ie considerable, and termed the river of Ki& Dara. We next made the mall village of Kadowla, with a mall rivulet, and boasting the same advantagea

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of site, abundance of water, and gardens. Beyond it we entered the GlGk of Fenah, passing to our

I left the A f g h h hamlet of Bosth. Thence made our way through orchards, with castles and villages to the right and left, unt,il we reached the village of Zirgarin, eeated on an eminence, south of a stream called the river of Ferzah. Here we halted for the day, a t the house of a previous acquaintance. The village commanding an extensive view of the KohistAn, as well as Koh DBman, I ' took bearings and made observations from it during the remainder of the day. There was also at the summit of the eminence the entrance to a cave, which, although in a measure closed up, we could easily see once led by flights of steps downwards. The people represented, that within memory it was practicable to reach the bottom, where the stairs terminated in a apacious chamber, surmounted with a giimbGz, or cupola. An account eo sober and probable, that I felt conviction it was true.

The, next day I passed in visiting the several villages and castles of Ferzah and its z i h t s , and in making a sketch of D6h ~irgarAn. The GlGk, I found, comprised twelve villages and four castles. The two principal villages, inhabited by TAjiks, contained but eighty houses each, and the remain- der varied from thirty to seventy houses. The aggregate of villages and castles embraced about seven hundred houses, consequently a population of nearly four thousand souls may be assigned to the

11 8 PERSL4N INSCRIPTION.

t6lGk of Fenah. This is mixed Afghtln and TAjik, although the tribea are generally distinct in the villages. The TAjiks are under a local governor, one Sekandar Shlh, saiyad, formerly a notorious robber. On inquiring what sort of a h&am he made, I was told he was very fond of exacting fines, but that he had a very smooth tongue. Whatever sum he imposed, he assured the individual that owing to a particular affection for him he only claimed half what was due to the offence, and to his own duty, but friendship could not be resisted. Amongst the z i h t s of the place I discovered a slab with a partially defaced Persian iwription, comme- morating the foundation of a fort, or castle of Nasi- rabid. It was unknown from what spot the stone had been conveyed, or to what locality it alluded.

W e proceeded up the glen of Ferzah for the purpose of visiting an iifshhh, or cascade. Our road led by many of the villages, most romantically and delightfully situated on eminences. When we had passed them we entered a lovely glen, very spacious at its commencement. I was astonished at the wild luxuriance of the vegetation, and a t its variety, and observed with satisfaction the violet, and the blackberry-bush. This enchanting space had been till within a very few years filled by a kyal garden ; little remained in evidence thereof but cultivated flowers, as sweet flags, &c, here and there sponta- neously growing. As we paced up the glen it contracted, but was always abundant in grass and

THE ROY& CASTLE. 119

plants. Towards its extremity the road became troublesome, but I did not dismount, and it opened into a clear space, immediately under the body of the superior hills, over which a pass led into the H a z h district of TGrkomh. Here we found the cascade, which was indeed an agreeable object, al- though inconsiderable as to size. I made a sketch of it, and then went to the limits of the snow in front, where I was surprised to find a profusion of the most benutiful auriculas. I know not whe- ther I was most pleased a t having seen the cascade or dimovered the flowers. Having eaten our break- !%ate, which we had brought with us, we returned to Dkh Zirgarh, well satisfied with our trip. The remainder of the day we paased in the garden of Ak- hGnd IddaitGlWs castle, where we regaled o~irselves upon mulberries at discretion.

Between Ferzah and Istiilif the soil was broken by ravines, and a very deep one occurs just before reaching the latter place, where Killa Shkhi, or the royal castle, stands, on an eminence left of the road. . I t was built by TaimGr S h a , who also planted a garden here, of which hardly a trace remains ; but there are numerous holly-trees sprin- kled about, of which the inhabitants boast, as there are nbne other to be found in the Koh D h n , however plentiful in the supdor hills of Hind6 Koeh. The royal castle had lofty walls and towers, but was built of mud, and has been seriously injured by the people themselves, who

1 20 ISTALIF.

are not well disposed to crown property, and wished to make it for ever untenantable, both because it commanded their town and that they might divert into their gardens a canal which was for- merly directed through its interior. Hence we had a magnificent coup 6 d of the town of Istiilif, seated on the opposite side of a profound glen, or valley, down which, over a bed of rocky boulders, rushes a foaming rivulet. The sides of the glen are clad with orchards and vineyards, which alike fill much of the valley above and below the town. The houses occupying the rising ascent of the glen, and standing on sites elevated one above the other, are all distinctly and separately discernible. Above the town soar some magnificent c h a n k which de- note the z i h t of H h t Eshb. Istiilif is one of the most picturesque spots which can be conceived ; all that a combination of natural beauties can achieve we behold here in perfection : their effect is not diminished, but rather augmented by the I

rude appearance of the houses of the town. The scenery of the country around is extensive and grand, in happy unison with the keeping of the whole picture. The people of the country Imve a proverb, that h t who has not seen Isthlif has i nothing seen. W e will not venture to'say so much as that, but may be allowed to believe that he who has seen Istiilif is not likely to see many places to surpass it, and few to equal it. W e were never tired of looking at the luxuriant scene, and left

HAZRAT ESHAN. 121

with regret, to fix our quarters, although intending to return on the morrow.

W e early repaired the following day to the royal castle, and I commenced a sketch of the fair land- scape before me. Indisposition compelled me to defer my labour; and crossing the glen, I walked to the town to procure medicine, availing myself of the opportqnity to visit the z i h t of H h t Eshh. Here were a number of slabs with Persian inscriptions, but they proved to be religious mottoes and pious sentences. The curiosity at the z i h t is the number of plane-trees, which together form the maas, which, a conspicuous object to the regions around, appears but one tree in the distance. There is a group of several trees, I think thirty-seven, and the difficulty of counting them correctly is believed to be due to an illusion which enshrouds the con- secrated locality. H & d t E s h b is but a recent saint., of not quite a century and halfs standing. He came from Tiirkistan, and. his descendants, all holy men, are still numerous in the Koh Diiman. The spot, however, was probably a shrine of an- tiquity, and the H h t has usurped tlie homage formerly paid to another. IsUif boasts also of the z i b t of Sofi within the town, of that of Noh Liikhi Shhib, in the glen at the western extremity of its orchards, and of that of H&rat Shih Mirdin, at Shorhwer, one of its dependent villages, where are some volcanic vestiges and sulphurou~ springs. A vein of a white friable stone, tinged with a red

122 REBEL WEAVER.

colour, is believed to be the pertrified remains of a dragon, slain, as all dragons in these coun- tries are, by the keenedged ZGlfikhir.

Nearly every householder of Ismif has his garden or orchard. In m o ~ t of these is a tower, where, as soon as the fruits ripen, the families repair, closing tlieir houses in the town. The people themselves, Tkj'ks, are not very a~niable, nor are their females very chaste; and the mulberry sea- son, which draws them into the orchards, by afford- ing facilities to their intercourse, is generally marked by sanguinary conflicts and murders, and proves productive in fines to the governor. Be- sides the town of IsGlif, the t61Gk comprises the adjacent villages of G G d k Perganna, Shonaki, Khwoja Hassan, Malla, Hassan Kacha, and Shor- Bwer. The town and villages are reckoned to contain together three thousand houses, which would give a population of fifteen thousand to eighteen thousand souls to the mGk. The re- venue derived from it is rated a t forty thousand rupees, and this year was enjoyed by AbdGl6h K h b , the Atchak Zai sirdk. .A great part of the population of the t o m is of the weaver class, and quantities of coarse cloths, IGngh'ls, and siisi, are manufactured, and a trade is maintained with TGrkistin. During the years of anarchy which distinguished the downfall of the SadG Zai mon-. archs, some individuals of notoriety were pro- duced amongst the turbulent citizens of IsGIif.

BOLEND KHAN. 123

The. most remarkable was Miihomed ShAh K h h , a simple weaver, who rose one morning, and fancied himself destined to be pidsh2h of Delhi. Grasp ing his musket, he left his house alone, shot the two or three first men he met, to show that he was in earnest, and took the road to KHbal. Be- fore reaching F e d he had been joined by several, and then crowds, began to flock in to him. At the head of four or five thousand men he entered ~ i i b a l : The court, under ShHh MhhmGd, was absent at PeshBwer ; and Prince SGldn Ali, go- vernor, had difficulty to preserve the BBlla His&, being compelled to abandon the city to the weaver- king. ShdhzHda Abbh broke from confinement, and aspired to sovereignty; and as MBhomed Shdh KhAn's ideas extended far beyond Kdbal, he could afford to support the prince's views there, and an understanding followed between them. The weaver quartered his men on the inhabitants of the city during the winter, and spared the Shia quarter of Chhdol, at his mercy, by listening to the hopes of ransom held out to him by tho GhGlhm KhAna, then with their sovereign at Peshiiwer. In spring Sirdk Mkhomed Azem Khbn waa commiesioned to clear the city of the pests assailing i t ; and arriving with a large body of troops, some hard fighting ensued. Mihomed ShAh K h h was slain,

- and, Prince Abbas secured, was re-conducted to his prison. More recently, one Bolend Khan made a figure in' the country. Alike a weaver ori-

124 LEAVE ISTALIP.

ginally, he became a robber, aiid flourished so exceedingly that he became the terror of the neighbourhood. He built a castle on an emi- nence at Isthlif, completely overlooking and over- awing the town and th1Gk. He rendered some important services to Dost MBhomed K h h , which he pleaded when, subsequently, that chief seized him, and ordered him to be put to death. Dost Mihomed KhAn acknowledged them, but said he was not about to be slain for the services he had performed, but for the treason he meditated.

On leaving Isthlif we passed down the glen for about a mile, and cleared the gardens of the place. We then crossed the river, and traversing a very rocky surface, made the high road, leading a mile and a half to two miles from the hills. Passed the parallel of Shoriwer, where are seen the azdhii, or dragon, and impressions in the rock, believed to be of Daldal, the charger of HSzrat Ali. Next that of KGshiib, a small hamlet, the more north- ernly of the Glhk of Istfilif. Beyond this, we reached the parallel of Istargitch, a collection of villages and orchards. I t is famous for its grapes, and was formerly for the refractory spirit of the inhabitants. Dost Miihomed KhAu somewhat al- layed it by the execution of two of their maleks, who were brothers, Agb J h and Malekji K h h . Still further, and computed four cosses from IstGlif, we had under the hills another cluster of villages and orchards, called Sanjit Dara. About a coss

TRADE OF CHARIKAR. 1%

beyond, having passed in the interval the castle and hamlet of Raijist, we came in a line with Tope Dam, celebrated for the magnificent tope it contains. Another coss brought us to Chaikal, a village of fifty houses immediately on the r o d , opposite to the zi6rat of the Khwhiida of ShBh ,

Nakshband. At this point commenced the gar- dens and cultivation of Chirikb. At the entrance of the town is a large castle, the residence of Khwoja Pbdshiih, one of the hereditary kowW~ns of the Kohisth, and claiming descent from H h t Eshh. Our road this morning had been over a tolerably even plain, sometimes crossed by rivulete and canals of water. To our left, as has been noted, were the skirts of the hills, and to our right the open plain of Koh D h a n , with its villages and cultivation. A few black tents were occssionally seen on the plain, the abodes of the Afghh pastoral families, whose flocks grazed it..

I had already made acquaintances in ChSikiir, and we halted at the house of one of them, at the open- ing of the t o m . After refreshing ourselves we walked up the bazar, about four hundred yards in length, and loosely covered to exclude heat. The town is said to contain about one thousand houses, and carries on an active trade with the neighbour- ing districts on either side of the Hind6 Kwh. It exports the coarse products of the looms of the Ko- histiin and coneiderable quantities of iron, both in pigs and manufactured into horse-shoes. At ChL-

126 TUTAM DARA.

r i k k resides the haam, or governor of the Kohis- tAn ; and duties are levied here on merchandize pas- sing to and fro between it and TGrkistiln. They were this year farmed for ten thousand rupees.

Chiirkk during the recent military occupation of Kiibal was the seat of a political agent, and the station of the sMh's Giirkha battalion. When the insurrection broke out the position was attack- ed by the warlike Kohistbiis, and after some days' severe fighting the battalion, sadly diminished in numbers, retired upon Kilbal, and at Karabagh nine miles from Chuikiir, its wrecks, entangled amongst the orchard walls of the t o w , were overwhelmed and extinguished. The gallant lit- tle mountaineers of Nipal would, however, appear to have left their foes as much cause for sorrow as for exultation, and, at least, died worthily.

Early in the morning we took the road to TGtam Dam, carrying our breakfaat in our saddle-bags, and accompanied by an acquaintance, one Dbdaji. To our left we paased the small village of HGpih, deserted in great measure, but once famous for its saiyads, the principal of whom, Saiyad Ashraf K h h , was slain by Dost lliihomed Khih, and the remain- der are fugitives in Sir Aulang. I t is farther distin- guished by its huge artificial mounds, from which at various times copious antique treasures have been extracted. Beyond HGpih every glen of the hills had its orchards, until we reached a castle called Killa Wali, where commences the district of TGtam Dam,

CONVERSATION AT BREAKFAST. 127

immediately preceded by a burial-ground, in which the graves were disposed without much nicety, as many extending from ea& to we& as from north to south. We passed through the village, of about one hundred and fifty houaes, the better of which belong to Hind&, who reside here in some num- ber. We made for the seignorial caetle of Shesh BGrjeh, belonging to Ali K h b , and seated on ari eminence overlooking the river of Ghorband, which here issues from the hills into the basin of the KO- histiin. While taking our breakfast, Sirkerder Kamber went to the castle for. some butter-milk. The females observing that I had a book in my hand, aaked if the AkhGnd was a mGlla, and from what country he came. The sirkerder said, from a country one year and one month distant. One of them said, that if the Bkhiind would write a tiiviz for a person with aficted eyes it would be a charitable act. The sirkerder promised to inform the BkhGnd. He came to me, and after we had breakfasted returned to the fair TAjiks, and told them that the kkhiind had opened his book, and that his nazzar, or sight, had fallen upon a black fowl, which if given he would write a tiviz. The fe- males ran into the castle, and a few minutes after came, led by a youngster, a short miserable-looking octogenarian, with his eyes bound up, and weeping most bitterly. Old as he was, he proved to be the husband of one of the prettiest of the Tgjik ladies, was named Azem KMn, and by office nk i r to

128 REMEDIES FOR RESTORING SIGHT.

,Ali K h h . He fell at my feet, embraced them, and sobbed incessaitly. He protested, that he had no black fowl, but would give his shirt or his trowsers, such as they were, if I would write a tivk. I made haste to scribble the letters of the alphabet on a slip of paper, tind directed it to be carefully sewn in fine linen and suspended over his temples. For fear the t6vb might not be effective, I recommended his wife to coagulate the white of an egg with alum, and apply the mass to his eyes by night, hoping that the epithem of Ri- verius might benefit him if the charm should not. D6daji was not pleased that I should write a tAvh mGfi, or gratis, and seemed to think that if black fowls were not p&duced white fowls ought to have been. I t is scarcely potisible to visit any place in the Koh Dkman or Kohisth without learning some proof of the justice or severity of Dost MQhomed K h h . Here the malek, Ali K h b , is the son of S&i K h h , one of the eight maleks seized the same day at Kkbkgh, and executed together at Cbirikiir.

Ali Khgn haa secured tolerable interest in the darbiir at Kiibal by giving his sister in maniage to Nbir AlladLd K h h , JGAnsbh, the brother of Dost Mhhomed Khb's mother, and who is the adviser and director of his son, Mhhomed Akbar L1.. K h b . Nb i r AlladLd has estates at TGtam Dam, and by renewing an ancient canal haa brought as much waste land under cultivation as yields an annual return of two hundred kha rwb of grain. Ho is,

moreover, the haam, and holds the valley ik jBghii.

I He is accustomed to tell his raiyats to repeat fewer prayers, and observe less fasting, but in lieu thereof to speak truth and be more honest.

From the river at TGtam Dara are diverted three magnificent canals, each extending for six cosses, or about nine to ten miles southernly, and for that dis- tance irrigating and fertilizing the plain. The more westernly is called JGi Robit, from terminating at a place so called. The intermediate one is named JGi Khwoja, and terminates at Dowlat K h a a . The third, and easternly one terminates at Karoti. In its course it supplies the villages and lands of D6h SBdGlah, D6h K H i Baiyh lloghal KhQn, YGrchi, Tok- chi, Khwoja Khedari Shakhh, Miihighir; beyond which is Karoti. This canal is named the J G i MBhi- ghir, and was made, or renewed, by Amir TaimGr.

TGtam Dara has since acquired celebrity, from having been the spot where Dost Miihomed K h b , in his attempt to raise the Kohiatb, encountered the British force under General Sale, and where the misconduct of a regiment of native cavalry led to some unfortunate results. Dost Maomed KhQn and his followers, it would seem, were little satis- fied with their triumph, for the latter dispersed, and the former, in true. Afghan style, observing,

4 , that rather than be sold by one of the scoundrels about him, i t would be better for him to sell him- self, rode off, nearly unattended, to KPbal, and sur- rendered to the envoy, Sir W. Macnaghten.

VOL. 111. K

SCENERY AT TUTAM DARA.

The river of TGtam Dam, flowing from Ghorband, was not at this time wider than thirty feet, nor lit- tle more than knee-deep. Its course was impetuous, and over a bed strewed with boulders. Seen from the castle of Ali K h h , the valley was sufficiently picturesque, and I judged it worthy of a sketch. We were uow on the brink of the basin of the

TUTAM D A M .

KohistAn, and had skirted the hills which bound Koh Dhman to the west throughout their entire length. I should have been happy to have ex- tended my progress into the Kohistb, but being a t this time unable, I returned to ChMk&.

In the evening we repaired to the garden of the

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late D i w b SGlth Singh, where we were delighted with a variety of flowers, Indian chrysanthemums, balsams, stocks, Indian pinks, China asters, princes' feathers, French and African marigolds, &c. The paths were planted on either side with saTedh and poplars, and in the centre, where they met, was a trtkht and summer-house. At one extre- mity of the garden waa a diwb-khkna, or hall of audience, at the other a handsome h a m h t , or residence, painted within and without with flowers. The garden to the north was open, al- lowing a complete and magnificent view of the Kohistgn and the Hind6 Kosh. I t occurred to me, that no Miihomedan would ever have thought of this arrangement. D i w b S 6 l t h Singh was a per- son of no small importance in his day. He was son of a Sikh of C h G k k , the tariizadiir, or weigher of grain, to Malek Is4 K h b of Miihomed IrAki, a dis- trict near Khwoja %gh RawQn. The son succeed- ed to his father's office, but subsequently became a partner, or connected with DiwPn DamGdGr, the d i w h of the S ik Zai Sirdk Madat Khkn. When Sirdk Mbhomed h e m K h h returned from Kash- mir he called for an account of the revenues of Koh D h a n and Kohisth from Diwhs Ramsah and GGrsah, who gave false statements. SGltsSn Singh informed the sirdb of their delinquencies, and was appointed d i w b of Koh D h n and the Kohis- a n in their stead. He held office during the life- time of the sirdiir and bis eon, Habib Ulah KhAn.

K 2

132 MIRZA IMAM VERDI'S PLOT.

In the distracted politics of that period, the diwan connected his interests with those of Am'mGlah K h h , Logari, and when the khan, fearing the headstrong violence of the sirdb, turned his at- tention to Dost Mihomed KhAn, the d iwh did the same. Mirza ImAm Verdi, the minister of Habib Ulah KhAn, had concerted a plan to secure his msster's stability, by the removal of four ob- noxious persons, viz. NCib AminGlah Khdn, Hafiqji son of Wais, Sh6kh Maziir, and hfir Marjati of the KohistLn. S G l h Singh, known to be emi- nently bold and reckless, was destined a part in the execution of this scheme. Summoned to a con- ference with Habib Ulah and M ' m Imiim Verdi, he was informed of what was intended to be done, and of what was expected from himself. On taking leave he revealed the plot to NBib AminGlah KhAn. This coming to Habib Ulah Khan's knowledge, he sent Niizir Ali Mihomed to secure the d i d n , intend- ing to put him to death. The n S u told SGlth Singh that Habib Ulah Khiin wished to give him a khelat, and dismiss him to the Kohisdn.

SGlth Singh immediately ordered his yCbGs to be laden, and putting forty armed Kohisthb in front of his horse, accompanied the n&ir to that part of the Shohar bazk where one road leads to the Bala Hissk and another to the house of Am'mGlah K h h . SGltan Singh took the latter, and the n G r re- ported to the sirdhi that the Hind6 had foiled him. Habib Ulah K h h ordered the drums to beat to

arms, and marched on AminGIah KhWs house. The khih resisted, having been joined by his friends, and the sirdlir's efforts to force his house proved ineffectual. These events led to the re-appearance of Dost Mfiomed K h h and the battle on the plain of Kergah, where Habib Ulah K h h was de- feated. Under Dost Mtihomed K h h the d i w h continued in employ, and waa particularly distin- guished for the dexterity with which he managed the affairs of the district under his charge. A person .

of most forbidding features, he had acquired an as- cendency in the Kohistin that no person before him had enjoyed. He affected the state of a Bird&, held levCes and darbih, planted gardens at C h h r ikh and Saiyad KhC1, and built splendid residences and castles. He was suspected of entertaining the notion that the Wj GGrG waa near at hand, but he was destined to fall. Forgetful of his obliga- tions in early life to Malek Is& K h h , he obtained, by his representations, an order from Dost MQ- homed K h h to seize him. The malek was called to ChiGflri.3, on pretence of business, was made prisoner, and conveyed to K&bal. A fine of sixteen thousand rupees was demanded of him, but he had interested in his favour wrza Sami K h h and N h i r Ali Mtihomed. llalek' I& K h h said to Dost Mtihomed K h h , You have sold me to my slave for sixteen thousand rupees ; put the slave in his Ag2s hands, and you shall have thirty thou- sand rupees." Dost Miihomed Khin feigned to be

soothed with this proposal, and was not displeased to see competition, as it promised to increase the sum he should get from one or other, or from both of them. SGlth Singh was sent for by Dost M&' homed K h b , who applied to him many abusive epithets, and talked, without intending to do so much, of making him a MGssulmb. On reaching home the d i w b sent for a rupee's weight, or value of arsenic, discoursed with his friends, like Cato, upon the immortality of the soul, dismissed them, locked hie door, and swallowed the poison. Dost Miihomed K h h was exceedingly sorry when in- formed of his death. Nor is this the only instance when he has had to regret having driven a high- spirited man to selfdestniction. Malek Id K h h now excused himself from paying anything, as the d iwh had not been made over to him, and the sirdh, ashamed of the affair, gave him his liberty. He, however, benefited by the appropriation of the estates and property of the unfortunate S6ltAn Singh.

From Chhikb, in company with a young lad, the son of our landlord, I walked up to Tope Dam, where I had before been. Midway the surface is strewed with huge boulders, and sprinkled with arghawln bushes, so beautiful in blossom at the commencement of spring. As we neared the hiUs the yellow fish, the red sCvitch, and the sherin bGi, or liquorice-plant, were plentiful. A little north of the dara is a castle called J& Nimlhi, or the place of prospect. Built by one Khwoja

TOPE DARA. 136

JAn, i t is now inhabited by a few wretched farniliea from Sir Aulang. At the opening of the dara into the plain are some large tumuli, one honoured by the name of RGstam. The castle of Tope Dara, situated in a picturesque and commanding situation, h a been suffered to fall into decay. The village comprises about sixty houses, constructed clumsily of stones. Passing through it, we proceeded to the Tope, and I occupied myself for some time in making sketohes of it. About the monument were numerous caper-trees, of a species similar to that of the Baloch and Persian hills. Proceeding a little up the dara, which has a fine brook running down it, whose volume of water was considerably augmented by the earthquake of last year, we found a con- venient place to rest in, and were mpplied by the villagers with mulberries. I had to strike sparks from a flint over the heads of two children, and learned that persons who had crossed the Atak river are supposed to possess some peculiar powers. W e remained here until evening, when we were joined by a party, composed of the relatives of Mir Hakji Siihib and the son of Khwoja Piidshah of ChWikBi.. We had a fresh regale of mulberries. When they departed we went a little farther up the dara to see a spring, called Nekkak Perida, or Flying Nekkak. We found a smooth perpendicular rock, from the base of which issues the spring, and which receives its name from one Nekkak, whose misfortune it was to fall from the top of the rock. We had several

186 TBE COMPASS.

of the villagers with us, and they pointed out two stones, in one of which was a hole, as they paid, the perforation of a spear; in the other a fissure, caused by a sword-wound. The stones, I vas assured, represented a brother and sister, slain by kA€rs, or infidels. From an eminence overlook- ing the plain I next took a few bearings, and my compass created no small astonishment; I how- ever soon made them familiar with it, and indulged them by looking through it, after I had fixed the hair-line on an object. In this way they became useful aa well as pleased, and told me the names of places that I did not know. I hitherto said nothing about opening the Tope, neither did I in- quire for the malek, as the time had not come, but appeared in the village, as I had done before, a casual visitor. Having completed my observa.- tions, we bade adieu to the friendly villagers, and passing the mound called the tomb of RGstam's son, we struck across the plain for ChGkbi.. In our progress we observed a man at some distance, who as soon aa he descried us left his path, tucked up the skirts of his garments, and with hie musket trailed and his body bent, glided. from behind one stone to another. He did not appear to be dodging us, but rather taking precautions against us. On nearing him, so that my young companion could catch a glance ' a t him, he was recognized as a fugitive of HGpiBin, who had stealthily visited his friends at Istargitch, and was now on his return to

BEH YARAN. 137

Sir Aulang. The poor wretch feared to encounter in every one he met an enemy. He relaxed a little on finding that he had nothing to apprehend from us, but preserved his caution and distance, and I could not but admire his activity.

Visible from Chhilck is a white building, at N h Y h h , or the three friends, which the people call a sandGk, or chest, believing it to have bean built for some other purpose than to enclose a tomb. As the spot is one which was honoured by the emperor Baber's approbation, and which he embellished with fountains and chaniir-trees, it

. behoved me to visit it. In my way to Tope Dam yeeterday, I had been near to it, as it lies about a mile only north of it, but judging I should have enough. to occupy me there during the day, I did not deviate from the road. I again, as the distance wtw trifling, left my Kiibal companions behind, and proceeded on foot with my landlord's young son. The sandGk, as it is called, proved to be the remains of a quadrangular building, having a pillar inserted at each of the angles. The entrance faced the south, which seemed to imply, that it was not originally a tomb, although there were two marble grave-stones standing within its walls. I t had also once been covered with a cupola, which seemed likewise to have been an addition, but it had in great mearmre fallen. Hence we passed to the z i h t of Derwbh, where there are fountains and chanh-trees, which we might have attributed to

138 A STRANGE BIRD.

the social king, of whom, however, no tradition is preserved here, bad we not been led still farther on towards Killa KhGrbb, where are mimy ancient sepulchral mounds, and where a spring sf water issues high up in the hills. Here were some vener- able chanh-trees; and the locality is to this day one of favourite resort to the people of Chkfk6.r. There could be little doubt but that this was the place which had delighted Baber. The water from the spring forms a canal on the plain below, irrigat- ing a small garden at the base of the bill. At- %h Y h i n is a village of some forty houses, and Killa KhGrbAn is a deserted castle. South of the latter is a ravine, supplied with a rivulet, and con- taining a few orchards and dwellings, named Takfa. W e followed this ravine until it merged into the plain, which we then traversed and regained our quarters. On my first visit to ChiXkG I found the inhabitants, who are not particularly famed for civility, inclined to be merry at my expense, and in walking the b& I incurred the hazard of being mobbed, one rogve passing the word to the other that a "miirgh noh," or strange bird, had come. On better acquaintance, however, they had become very respectful and tractable, and in lieu of their jeers and jests I received in passing their S a l h dlfkams and KhGsh Qmadikh.

As Sanjit Dara was one of the vats between Istaif and Tope Dara which I had not seen, I proposed to devote a day to ai excursion to it ;

GARDENS OF SANJIT DARA. 139

and accordingly we mounted, and proceeded across the plain to Tope Dara ; whence we intended to skirt the hills. A good many ravines intersected eur road, otherwise pretty good. At about two miles we passed the agricultural village of Shghmak, with an excellent canal. To the left of the road there were some vestigea, in stone parapets and mounds, not of much importance, and in the hills to our right we observed the entrances to several samGches, or caves. Hence we gained the villages and gardens of Sanjit Dara, and halted for the day under some walnut-trees on the bank of its rivulet. Here are collected seven or eight villages. The principal z i h t is distinguished by a magnificent chanh-tree. The soil is too rocky to be turned to great profit, and prevents the cultivation of the vine to any extent. The orchards are principally stocked with mulberry and walnut-trees. We were preparing to return to ChGk&, when we were told that Mihomed Jdfar K h h , one of my Bamiib companions, was encamped below the drtra, and that he held some of the villages in jiighir. We paid him a visit, and accepted his invitation to become his guests for the evening. A sheep waa killed, and, while our supper was preparing, the khtn and myaelf were engaged in conversation. He was intent upon forming a canal, the obstacles to which were some rocks. He seriously inquired of me whether they might not be removed by vinegar. I told him all I knew about Hannibal

140 . A KABAL DOCTOR

and the Alp, but recommended him, nevertheleas, to try the effects of a little powder.

From Sanjit Dara we returned to ChibiIkBr, and taking b w e l l of our friends, crossed the canal, or JGi Robiit, flowing through the town, and passed over a fertile tract, cultivated chiefly with cotton. We then crossed the JGi Khwoja, and subsequently JGi Milhigh'u, a little after which we reached Killa Mir Saiyad K h h . The owner received us with po- liteness, and lodged us in his mihmh-khha, but complaining of heat, I was conducted to the garden. There we found a doctor of KAbal, who had just re- turned from B o k h h Sherif, where he had realized three thousand rupees by his practice. He was a dwarfish, hook-nosed, morose old gentleman, and disposed to have displayed his erudition had I coun- tenanced him. He remarked, that he had known two or three Feringhh, who administered mercury, copperas, areenic, and other poisons, while his own practice was according to the genuine YGnb5, or Greek system, and safe.

A primary object of my rambles into the Kohis- t.&n of KAbal was to ascertain if any veetiges existed which I might venture to refer to Alexandria ad Caucasum, the site of which, I felt assured, ought to be looked for at the skirts of the HindG Kosh in this quarter. I had before reached the borders of the plain of BGgriim, and had heard strange stories of the innumerable coins, and other relics, found on the soil, but had been unable to procure' a specimen,

PLAIN OF B E O M . 141

all to whom I applied, whether HindG or MGssul- m b , denying they had any such things in posses- sion. I now purpoeed to obtain from Mir Saiyad K h h a party of his retainers to enable me t,o tra- verse and survey the plain, which is dangerous to do, owing to the marauders infesting it. He provided half a dozen horsemen, a sufficient escort, aa, being known to the robbers, they are not interrupted by them. Having passed the large ruinoua village GhG- l h Shkh we arrived at Killa Bolend, on the brink of the KohistAn basin, and at the commencement of the plain. There were seven considerable HindG traders here, but we applied to them for coins in vain. W e therefore proceeded across the plain until we reached a tope at the eastern extremity of Koh Bacha, and near JGlgha. Of this monument I made a sketch, and noted my observations of the country. When we were well back on our return I dismissed Mir Saiyad KhAn's party, and we struck across the plain to Killa Khwoja, a small village, where we were welcomed by Malek GafGr, a friend of my companion, Sirkerder Kamber. W e heard fresh tales of Egr-Am, and the treasures found there, and my curiosity was so intensely excited, that I deter- mined to revisit it, taking with us Mir Afzil, the malek's son, who had friends in the vicinity. Ac- cordingly, with him for our guide, we passed suc- cessively the villages and castles of Dkh G h G l h Ali, Mahighir, seated on the canal of that name, Killas GhGliim and JkGla, Koh Dkh, Killa IllaiyL,

142 COINS.

and GGjar Khkl, beyond which was Killa Bolend. W e were there received by a dyer; and Mh Afzil descended into the valley below to inquire for a friend, residing at one of the castles of Biiltb Kh6l. I repaired to the roof of the dyer's house, and wished to have taken bearings, but the wind was too violent to permit me to remain at ease. M'ir' Afzil returned with Baloch Khbn, a fine honest young man, who brought me a present of melons and grapes. This was the commencement of an acquaintance, which continued as long as I remained at Kiibal ; and Baloch K h h greatly assisted me in my subsequent researches, as I could always, when needed, call upon him and his armed followers to attend me in my excursions, and to protect the peo- ple I sent. He now exerted himself to procure coins ; and at last an old defaced one was produced by a Miihomedan, for which I gave two pais, which induced the appearance of others, until the HindGs ventured to bring forth their bags of old monies, from which I selected such as suited my purpose. I had the satisfaction to obtain in this manner some eighty coins, of types which led me to anticipate bright results from the future. The fears and scru- ples of the owners had been overcome, and I r e mained some time at Killa Bolend, securing their confidence. It had been feared that I should employ bighis, or forced labourers, to scour the plain in search of antique relics, on which amount it had been determined to conceal from me, if possible, their

REPORTS. 143

existence. I afterwards learned from a ziirghar, or goldsmith, of ChQrikh, that at the time I applied to him he had three c h h k s , or about fifteen pounds in weight of old coins by him, which his companions deterred him from exhibiting. I made myself well . informed aa to the mode, and by whom t,hese coins were found ; and the clue to them once discovered, the collection became an easy matter, although i t subquently proved that a long time was necessary before I became fully master of the plain. While this traffic waa carried on, the report had spread that a FeringhI had come to engage soldiers, and crowds came from the neighbouring castles to ascertain the truth, and what pay waa given. I now thought it better to leave, and accordingly we retraced our steps to Killa Khwoja.

W e had intended to have made a long march next day, but at the first castle we reached the sirkerder was recognized by the people without, and we were induced to remain there for the day. The castle was built by one MGsa Khan, since dead, and the honours of our entertainment were performed by Assad Khln, a fine youth, the younger of his two sons living.

In the morning I ascended one of the towers of the castle, and took bearings, and after breakfirst we started on our road towards KQbal. As in coming we had skirted the plain of Koh Diman to the west, so in returning we skirted its eastern limits. Under the hills parallel to our course is the

site of a city, called, by tradition, TBtarang Z6.r. It extends for a long distance, but appeara to be a con- tinuation of the ancient sepulchral grounds of BE- gdm, from which it is separated only by the river of Koh D h a n . Coins, trinkets, &c., are frequently picked up on the surface. Passing the village of BAgh Alam, of one hundred houses, and then Killa KerimdGd, we came upon the river, in a wide bed, but the stream is inconsiderable. East of it was a hill called Chehel Dokhtarih, or the forty virgins, who have as much celebrity in these countries as the eleven thousand virgins of Cologne have in Europe. Hence we passed the village Langar, of sixty houses, and then a castle called Killa Godar ; after which came the village of Bg;l;iiri containing forty houses; from which we proceeded to Kgla- khiin, where the sirkerder found a friend, one ZEhin K h k who would not allow us to proceed farther. Kiillakhih is a large village of four humlred houses, the greater part of which are fortified. Its revenue is enjoyed by Ahmed K h h , son of the late Nawiib Samad K h b , and it is famed for raisins of superior flavour. In the evening I mounted, for the purpose of visiting a tope near Korrinder. We psssed to the left, in succession, the small village of MhshwMi and the larger one of Korrinder, then the castle of Rohilla K h h , Popal Zai. Crossing a deep ravine, we came to the seignorial castles of LGchG K h h , held by the family of HAji Riihmathlah, one of whose daughters is the favourite wife of Dost Miihorned K h b , and

CHENI KBANA. 145

mother of his son Miihomed Akbiir KhGn. Hence turning to the east, we crossed the river of Koh D h , and struck easterly to the tope, on the emi- nenczes overlooking the plain. I examined and made a sketch of the structure ; after which repaired to another building, a little more easterly, and lower down towards the river, called Ch6ni Khhna. This was an octagonal building, neatly constructed of ex- cellent kiln-burnt bricks. It had been originally crowned with a cupola, and had been superbly painted with flowers and other devices, in tints of lapis lazuli, red, yellow, and other colours ; whence, I presume, its modern appellation. It had four en- trances from the several cardinal points with an aberration of twenty degrees; but there was no recess which could serve for a kabla, or to point it out as a Miihomedan edifice. Within there waa a grave-stone, bearing a rather licentious copy of verses, or epitaph, and the date 1211 of the Hejra, which did not, consequently, apply to the edifice, which certainly had an antiquity of some centuries. It stands on an eminence, buttressed with masonry to the north, west, and south. Having completed inspection, we retrograded to KQlakhAn.

In the morning we skirted the hills to the Kotal of Miimb: KhhGn. On our right we had an im- mense artificial mound, said to denote the site of an ancient fortress, and called Killa UjpGt. Its summit is now crowned by mud walls, of compara- tively recent construction. The kotal has an eaag

VOL. ~ n . L

146 ILTAFAT KHAN.

commencement, and a plain is crossed for above half a mile, when we reach a choki. Hence the ascent is more marked for two or three hundred yards, until the summit is reached, where is a takht, or basement of stones, from which we have a good view of the plain of K h DGshman, and the country and hills to the east. At the termination of the kotal, or where commences the plain of K h DGshman, ie the dilapidated castle built by Iltiiht KMn, Khwoja, in the semi appertaining to which we halted, to avoid the meridian sun. The castle and lands are farmed by Nh i r Khaihlah, for some four or five thousand rupees annually; and he is a most severe landlord. A splendid masjit is attached to the castle, but has been suffered to fall into decay. The fine garden has been destroyed, and nothing of verdure remains but an avenue of mulbefiy-trees, leading from the foot of the kohl to the castle. IltUat K h h was a khwoja, or eunuch to the Sad6 Zai princes, and deeigned this mtle, with its gar- dens and establishments, which were most complete, to perpetuate his name. The course of events has made them crown property, and they are neglected, as such property generally is. About three o'clock we resumed our journey, and at three quarters of a mile from the castle crossed a deep ravine, in which was a small rivulet, which flows across the plain to Killa Khji, and eventually to Aga Serai. A course of five miles cleared us of the plain, and led us to the foot of the Kotal P&h Miniir, crossing

RETURN TO KABAL. 147

a low mge of hills separating the plain of KAra DGshman from the pastures, or chaman of Vazira- Md. At its southern base is the small ruinous village, called after the kotal, and a little beyond it to the east is the village D6h Yaiya. On the crest of the kotal is a choki, from which an exten- sive view i~ commanded, and we had again the pleasure to behold before us KBbal and it8 environs. Demending into the plain, we passed to our right a deserted castle, built by M'u Wais, and a large tumnlus. W e had subsequently to wade through a mass of stagnant water and mud, up to our horses' girths, for nearly a mile, when we reached the castles and villages of B$m&G, and then the Kaiabh of Sh& Z e m k from which we pushed on to the M l a Hi&, closing a very agreeable excursion.

CHAPTER VII.

Collection8 of coins.3ealousy.-Importance of discoverie8.-An- tique8.-Site of Bkgdm.-Hill rangee.-Neighbowhood of BQ- *.-Tope.-Charscter of the Kohidn.-Msgnificent view. -Boundaries of B&&n.-Evideneee. - Mounds.-Tumu1i.- Stonen.--Site of city-Depomts with the dead.-Testimony of Herodotus.-Funereal jam.-Traditions.-Mode of sepulture.- Absence of data.-Hdp1h.-Canal MiihighIr.-Taimirr'e co- lony.-Decline of %@.-S ica t ion of BkgrBm.-agrbm of KhbaL-Bkgh of Jel&btid.-Bkg$m of Pesh6wer.-Ety- mology.-Topee.-Antiquities of KohistAn.-Perwh-Rkgh Rawha-Loeslitien in Panjehir.-Caves in Nijrow.-Vestiges in Taghow-Ruins in Ghorbend.-Cavee-Zht.

TRE discovery of so interesting a locality as that of B k g r b imposed upon me new, agreeable, and I should hope, not unprofitable employment. I avail- ed myself of every opportunity to visit, it, as well with the view to secure the rich memorials of past ages it yielded as to acquire *a knowledge of the adjacent country.

Before the commencement of winter, when the plain, covered with snow, is of course closed to re- search, I had accumulated one thousand eight hnn- dred and sixty-five copper coins, besides a few silver ones, many rings, signets, and other relics. The

COLLECTIONS OF COINS. 149

next year, 1834, the collection which fell into my hands amounted to one thousand nine hundred cop- per coins, besides other relics. In 1835 it increased to nearly two thousand five hundred copper coins, and in 1836 it augmented to thirteen thousand four hun- dred and seventy-four copper coins. In 1837, when I had the plain well under corltrol, and was enabled constantly to locate my people upon it, I obtained sixty thousand copper coins, a result at which I was well pleased, having at an early period of my re searches conjectured that so many as thirty t,hou- sand coins might annually be procured. The whole of the coins, and other antiquities, from Bggriim, with several thousands of other coins, brought to light in various parts of Afghhisth, have been forwarded to the Honourable the East India Company.

The failure of the KBbal mission in 1838 com- pelled me to leave the country and to suspend my labours. I had found, that I was not permitted to prosecute them without suffering from jealousy in certain quarters, and when I waa desirous to resume them in 1840, the hostility of a miserable fraction ofthe Calcutta clique prevented my purpose, by acts as unprecedented, base, and illegal, as, perhaps, were ever perpetrated under the sanction of authority against a subject of the British crown.

It may be superfluous to dwell upon the import- ance of the BCgr&m collections; independently of the revelation of unknown kings and dynasties, they impart great positive knowledge, and open a wide

150 IMPORTANCE OF DISCOVERIES.

field for speculation and inquiry an the very mate- rial subjects of the languages and religions rev ail- ing in Central Asia during the dark periods of its history. Astonishing as are many of the conclusions forced upon us, because in opposition to opinions before current, and now proved to be erroneous, it is a source of unqualified satisfaction that not only has the progress of discovery confirmed the veracity of our justly -teemed classical authorities, but a t every new step it teaches us to appreciate the value of our Scriptural records, which alone have preserved a rational account of the growth and spreading of the human race.

Besides coins, B6griim has yielded very large numbers of engraved seals, some of them with in- scriptiona, figures of men and animals, particularly of birds, cylinders, and parallelogramic amulets with sculptured sides, rings, and a multitude of other trinkets, and misaellaneous articles, generally of b m and copper ; many of which are curious and de- serve description. The reasons which confine me to a mere allusion to the results of my research- at Bi5griim need not restrict me as regards the locality, whiuh, besides its pretensions to be considered Alex- andria ad Caucssum, has other claims to notice. It occurs about twenty-five miles in a direct dis- tance from the present city of KAbal, and is situated a t the s o u t h 4 point of the level country of the Kohisth, in an angle formed by the approach of a lofty and extensive m~untain range, trending from

SITE OF BEGRAM. 161

the superior Caucasus on the one side, and by an inferior range, (the Si6h Koh,) on the other. The former range, while it separates the Kohisth from the populous valley of Nijrow to the east, defines to the west the course of the lengthened valley of Panjshir. The latter range, commencing about fifteen miles east of Kiibal, stretches to the north, and gradually sinks into the plain of BEgrh. Through a break in this range, called Tang-i-KhkGn, nearly east from Kiibal, flows the united stream^ of KAbd and Loghar, which, surmounting a magni- ficent fall, winds among the hilly districts in ita course to LGghmh and Jeliilabiid. The range it- self forms a prominent feature in the landscape of KAbal, displaying a bold precipitous front, and, being of gneiss, has the appearance of being strati- fied. Behind, or east of the SiAh Koh, is a hilly, not mountainous, tract, although waste and desolate, named Koh Mfi, from the tribe that pasture their flocks in it ; and this tract intervenes between the Sifi Koh and the valley of Tagbow; moreover, through it meanders the river of the Kohidn, until, at a spot near SGrbi, it unites with the river of Kiibal. Through the open space formed by the approach of the above noted ranges the river of Kohidh, formed by the accession of the larger dreams of Panjshir, PerwAn, and Ghorband, with the minor rivulets of Rohisth and Koh D h a n , directs its course, describing, a t the point where it quits the basin of the Kohisth, the northern

152 NEIGHBOURHOOD OF BEGRAM.

boundary @f the plain of BEgrh. Parallel to the river, also leads the high road from the Kohistb to Nijrow, Taghow, and Jeliilab6d.

Bdgrh is comprised within an extensive district called Khwoja Khedari. To the north, it has an abrupt descent into the cultivated lands and pas- tures of the Bhltfi Khd and Kerimddd KhEl fa- milies, which interpose between it and the river for the extent of perhaps a mile, or until the river reaches the base of a singular eminence called BGrj Abdfilah, which, from the remains of walls and mounds on its summit, was undoubtedly an appur- tenance of the ancient city. Beyond, or east of BG rj Abdfilah, another small space, devoted to cul- ture, with two or t h e castles, called Karaichi, fills a curvature in the direction of the abrupt boundary of the plain with the course of the river. Beyond extends a low detached hill, called Koh Bacha, for about a mile and half, separating for that distance the level dasht from the river. At the eastern extremity of Koh Bacha is one of those remarkable structures we call topes ; and on the opposite, or northern side of the river, are the castles and cultivated lands of Miihomed Iriikhi, and beyond them a sterile sandy tract gradually ascends to a celebrated hill and z i h t , called Khwoja R6gh Rawln, an interesting point in the scenery from Begrib, and thence to the skirts of the superior hill range above mentioned, high up on which the gardells of the village of DGrniimeh,

SCENERY IN THE KOHISTAN. 153

(a corruption of DGr Namlhi, or conspicuous from afar,) are visible. This village is famous as a resi- deuce of a desperate band of robbers, who infest their vicinity in general, and. the plain of B 6 g r h in particular; also for affording asylum and pro- tection to the outlaws of KAbal. Eaat of the tope, the level plain stretches for above a mile, until, with the same character of abrupt termination, it sinks into the low lands of JGlgha, where are numerous cltstles, much cultivated land, and, as the name JGlgha implies, a large extent of pasture.

The KohistAn, it may be observed, and which may better show the position of B6grh, is a punch- bowl, or basin, on three sides surrounded by hills, and on the fourth, or southern side, by a compa- ratively elevated tract, which farms, as it were, the rim, and runs sinuously from TGtam Dam- the point where issues into the basin the river of Ghorband-and passing, as we have seen, the plain of B6&m, extends easterly to JGlgha. This basin may have a circumference of thirty-five to forty miles. The higher lands of BCgriim on the one side, and af MQhomed Irikhi on the opposite one, form the spout to this basin, from which descend its waters upon the lower countries eastward. The coup Ccd presented is most magnificent ; the winding courses of the rivers, the picturesque ap- pearance of the gardens and castles, the verdure of the psstures, the bold and varied aspect of the ellvironing hills, crowned by the snowy summits

164 BOUNDARIES OF B E O M .

of the Hindii Kosh, form a landscape whom beauty can scarcely be conceived but by those who have witnessed it. The natives of these countries are apt to compare it with the scenery about Heriit and the Kohisth of Meshed, but they, as well as the neighbourhood of Ispahh, which is very beautiful, must yield the palm to the Kohisth of Kiibal.

The boundaries of the dasht of BEgr6m are the lands of ~ f i i ~ h a to the emt, the level plain of Miihighir to the west, the river of Kohisth to the north, and to the south what is called the river of Koh Dfiman. At the north-west angle of the dasht is the small village of Killa Bolend, where reside a few Hindi5 traders, who have considerable inter- course with the neighbouring hill tribes, and at the south-west angle are three castles, called Killa Y e 5 bbhi, distant from Killa Bolend about four miles.

Notwithstanding the vast numbers of relics discovered on the plain, other evidences that a city once stood on i t are not so palpable as to have attracted extraordinary attention, had it not been imperatively directed to the locality from t,he cir- cumstance of the discovery of the numerous and sin- gular antique treasures at it. In many places, indeed, i t has been proved, that by digging about a yard in depth, lines of cement, seeming to denote the outlines of structures and their apartments, may be found. On the edge of the plain to the north, where it abruptly sinks into tho low lands of

LARQE MOUNDS. 155

Ba tu Khkl, from Killa Bolend to Karaichi is a line of artificial mounds ; but such objects are so universal in occurrence throughout the Afghh countries that, in ordinary instances, they might claim only a cursory notice. On the summit of the eminence called BGj AbdGlah are the re- mains of stone walls, marking a square enclosure ; they are, however, loosely arranged, and, I should rather conjecture, denote the remains of a more recent castle than an edifice of the ancient BC- g r h ; some mounds, bowever, found on it, may have a greater antiquity. South of, and oonti- p o n s to BGrj AbdGlah, are some mounds of great magnitude, and accurately describing a aquare, of considerable dimensions. On one aide of thie square, in 1833, the exterior front of the mound eubeided deep into the earth, and disclosed that these mounds were constructed of huge unburnt bricks, two spans square and one span thick. Thia accident also enabled me to ascertain that the original b d t h of these stupendous walls, for euch we mu& suppose them to have been, could not have been less than sixty feet, while it may have been much more. Among the mounds near Killa Bolend is a large tumulua, which appears to have been coated with thin squares of white marble ; and near it, in a hollow formed in the soil, is a huge square stone, which the Miihomedans call Sang RGstam (RGstam's stone); and which the HindGs, without knowing why, reverence sr, far

156 SCULPTURED REMAINS.

as to pay occasional visits to it, to daub i t with sindGr, or red-lead, and to light lamps at it. In the Maomedan burial-ground of Killa Bolend is a fragment of sculptured green stone, made to serve as a head-stone to a grave ; above four feet is above ground, and we were told as much more was con- cealed below. This is a relique of the ancient city; and we meet with another and larger but plain green stone applied t.o a similar purpose in a burial-place called ShGhidh, or the place of martyrs, under Koh Bacha. In a z i h t at Chgl- kiir is also a fragment of sculptured green atone; and it ie remarkable, that all fragments of stone which we discovered, and which we may suppose to have reference to the ancient city, are of the same species of coloured stone. The inhabitants of these parts are now ignorant whence it was procured, although, doubtless, from the inferior hills of the Caucasus to the north, where steatite is so abundant that the people dwelling in them make their cooking utensils of i t ; and steatite, with jade, and other magnesian green stones, are found together in the lower hills of the Sfled Koh range, south of the valley of Jelklabid.

In specifying the extensive limits over which coins and other relics are brought to light, we must not be understood as. conveying the notion that the entire space defined by them was once filled by a city. W e should rather suppose not, and that it is to the ancient burial-grounds of the

ANCIENT BURIAL-QROUNDS. 167

former city we are indebted for the supplies of curiosities we meet with. If asked to assign the site of the city, I should, fixing the enormous square enclosure south of BG j AbdGlth as the fort, or citadel, locate it between those remains and the western portion of the plain, or towards Killa Bolend and Mkhighir, in which space coins are found in far lees number, while scoriae, lumps of iron, fragments of glazed earthenware (the latter a peculiar token, in opposition to the common baked pottery which is scattered over the whole plain,) are found more abundantly than in other spots. In this part also, besides the remains of walls, may be traced the courses of the ancient canals, by their parallel lines of embankment. The presence of mounds, the casual discovery of coins, and other antiques, are generally supposed to indi- cate the site of a city, whereas, they may only point out that of its burial-grounds ; a distinction worthy of notice, when the detection of an actual site is important, and which might possibly be usefully applied to some of the celebrated old sites in the world, as Babylon, Nineveh, &c., particularly when we have reason to believe that, with the ancients, their burial-places were without the city, and in- dependent of it. The probability that the great numbers of coins and other reliques, discovered on the dasht of & g r h , are merely deposits with the ashes of the dead, as prescribed by the usages and superstitions of former times, is strengthened

158 BURNINQ OF THE DEAD.

by the knowledge that such deposits were in practice, and the articles found alike confirm it. Coins were mingled with them, that the expense of transit over the rivers of Paradise might be provided for ; as with the Greek or Roman corpse waa placed a fee for the ferryman Charon. Rings, seals, beads, ear-rings, small images, &c., were either the pro- perty of the deceaeed or the votive offerings of friends; arrow-heads, frequently occurring, may mean that the deceased was a wamor, or that he was fond of archery. The collections from B k g r h have furnished a great variety of engraved signets, and many gema, curious as specimens of art, with multitudes of small sculptured animals, particularly of birds. A pasaage in Herodotus, while it admir- ably accounts for the production of many of the relics elicited in the burial-grounds of ancient Babylon, servea also to explain why similar results should be obtained in those of Bkgrh. Speaking of the old inhabitants of Babylon, he sap, " Each person haa a seal-ring, and a cane, or walking- stick, upon the top of which is carved an apple, a rose, a lily, an eagle, or some figure or other, for to have a stick without a device is unlaw- ful."

The immense distribution of hgments of pottery may be satisfactorily explained, when we recollect that the mode particularly prevalent of treating the bodies of the dead was by cremation, then collecting the ashes and lodging them in earthern

SIFTED EARTH. 169

jam, which were finally depoeited beneath the soil. These funereal jars, in the -course of ages, have be- come affected by damp, and consequently fragile, as by the abrasion of the surface of the soil they and their fragments have become exposed; hence we diecover the fragments mixed with the soil, and the coins and other relics originally deposited with them. Entire jars are, indeed, sometimes found: and the lines of cement, before noted, as discover- able about a yard beneath the surface, if horizontal, may indicate the floors on which these jars were placed ; and, if perpendicular, the separation of one deposit from the other.

The traditiom of the country assert the city of B 6 g r h to have been the Sheher YGnsln, or Greek city, overwhelmed by some natural . catastrophe, and the evidence of its subterranean lines and apartments is appealed to in support of them.. If we have rightly conjectured their nature, they are found only in their natural position, and afford evidence of. another kind. The present Hindfis call the site B a l r h , and suppose it to have been the capital of Uj& Bal.

There is a peculiar feature attending the depoeit of the sepulchral jars, that not only was it neces- ssry to cover them with earth, but it was essential that the earth should contain no stones or other extraneous substances. So particular was this deemed that in many situations on the ascent of hills, where earth could not be found, it has clearly

been brought from the plains beneath, and always carefully sifted. In all the old burial-places of AfghAnisdn we witness the feeling as manifestly as if expressed on a Roman tomb-stone, Sit tibi terra levis. In traversing the dasht of Bi5grh not a stone is met with ; the reaeon obviously, that the surface is actually composed of the pre- pared earth, spread over the ancient places of sepulture.

It is mortifying, when making inquiries as to the former history of a site, on which we find coins of ages in regular succession from Alex- ander to the Mfiomedan era, to learn no better account of i t than the traditions above-mentioned afford, and while we are compelled to conjecture doubtingly upon its origin, to have no precise data on which even to estimate the period of its decay and final ruin. That it existed for some centuries after the Miihomedan invasion of these countries, is proved by the vast numbers of Cufic coins found at it ; which, moreover, seem to show that the early conquerors of I s l h did not particularly in- terfere with the religion df the conquered, or of such that submitted to their temporal dominion, as the practice of cremation must have been con- tinued, and would not have been followed had the people become Miihomedans. I t is not, in- deed, improbable that this city, like many others, may owe its destruction to the implacable Jenghiz ; but, if so, we ought to detect some notice of it

CANAL OF MAHIOHIR. 161

in the extant histories of that conqueror, and of his period.

Without a f f ' i n g the probability that at Mgrb, or in ita immediate neighbourhood, was the site of Alexandria ad Caucasum, it will be remembered that the narratives of Chinese travellers e x p m l y state that, subsequently, there waa mpital city in this part of the country called HGpih. A l o d i t y of this name still exists between Chidlciir and Tiitam Dam ; and I have noted that it poseeseea many veetiges of antiquity ; yet, as they are exclu- sively of s sepulchral and religious character, the site of the city to which they refer may rather be looked for at the actual village of Malek HGp'rELn, on the plain below, and near Chiirikh, by which it may have been replaced as the principal town; as, more anciently, i t superseded another, perhaps Alexandria itself.

That E g A m ceased to exist at the time of TaimGr's expedition into India we have negative proof, furnished by his historian, Sherifirdin, who informs us that TaimGr, in his progress from AnderAb to Kfibal, encamped on the plain of BhBn (the modem BaiyBn, certainly) ; and that while there he directed a canal to be cut, which was caned Milhighin ; by which means the country, before desolate and unproductive, became fertile and full of gardens. The lands, thus restored to cultivation, the conqueror apportioned among sun- dry of his followers. Tbe canal of M%igh'n exists

VOL. m. Y

162 SITE OF BEQRAM.

at this day, preserving the name conferred upon it by TaimGr. A considerable village, about a mile wesf of B6@, standing on the canal, hss a similar appellation, and probably also owes its origin to TaimGr, who may have attempted itl it to have revived or renewed the ancient city. This canal of Mmghir, derived from the river ef the Ghorband valley, at the point where it issues from the hills into the basin of the Kohistb, irrigates the lands of Baiyib and Magh i r , and has a course of about ten miles. Had the city of B 6 g r h then existed these lands immediately to the we& of i t would not have been waste, and neglected; neither would TaimGr have found i t necessary to cut his m a l , as the city, when existing, must have been supplied with water from the same source, that is, from the river of Ghorband, and from the eame point., that is, at the exit of its waters from the hills into the basin; and the m a l ~ supplying the city must have been directed through them very lands of MEihighh and Baiyan, which TaimGr found waste and unproductive. The sit^ of BGgrih, although having to the north the great river of the Kohish , could not have been irrigated from it, as its stream flows in low land, coneiderably beneath the level of the dasht, besides being too distant. On the south it has the river. of Koh D b a n ; but this, while only partially and casually provided with water, runs in a sunken bed, and is alike inapplicable to the purposes of irrigation.

TEE APPELLATION REORAH. 168

It may be farther noted with reference to the colonization of Mhighir by TaimGr, that the in- habitants of Khwoja Khedari, while forgetful as to whom their forefathers owed their ettlement in this country, acknowledge their TGrki descent, and alone of all the inhabitants of the Kohietkn speak the TGrki language.

The appellation Bbgrh, although it may be questioned whether such was ever the peculiar name of the city, must still be considered indicative of the fbrmer importance of the site it now de- signates ; undoubtedly signifying the chief city, the capital, the metropolis. Still, i t must be borne in mind, especially, when mnsidering the coins found on it, that it must generally have been a provincial capital. About three miles east of Kkbal we have a village and extensive pasture retaining the name of %g.r&m ; and if we inquire whether we have any vestiges of a former oity at the spot, numerous mounds, and a series of magnificent topes on the skirts and in the recemes of the neighbouring hills to the south, seem to attest the fact-and would denote, might we infer from the single d n f o n d in one of these buildings by M. Hmigberger, whe examined them, that the capital of King Mokad- phiaes, or Kadphisee, and hia lineage, waa them located ; or, should not that inference be granted, that a city of some coneequence existed here, for the structure was probably, if not connected with that sovereign, erected in his time. Two large cities

M a

164 BEGRAM OF JELALABAD.

could scarcely have been located so close together as B E g r h and the present Kkbal, therefore it is possible that the predecessor of the modern city may have been B6grb (under, however, some other and peculiar name), on the banks of the river of Loghar, ' which winds through its meadows. A character of sanctity is yet preserved to the Loghar river in this spot, for to the adjacent village of Sh6vaki the HindGs of Kkbal annually repair to celebrate' the vE& holidays. Near Jelblabiid a spot called E%grh, about a

mile and half or two miles west of the present town, would seem to denote the site of the former capital of the province ; and that a city has flourished here, with its peiiods of importance and prosperity, we are not permitted to doubt; not merely by con- sidering t h e actual state of the country and the advantages of position, but from the existence in the neighbowhood of tbree distinct series of topes, at DarGnta, Chahk Bkh, and Hidda, without enu- merating independent and isolated ones. The vici- nity of Bggrim, indeed the entire plain of Jeliilabiid, is literally covered with tnmuli and mounds. These are truly sepulchral monuments, but, with the topes, sanction the inhrence that a very considerable city .existed here, or that it waa a place of renown for sanctity. It may have been both. Tradition aBrms, that the city on the plain of Jelaabiid was called AjGna, and alike asserts that the ancient Lahore was there ; which may mean, that prior to the para-

mount sovereignty in these countries being possess- ed by Lahore (it must be remembered it was so when MBhmGd of G h m i first invaded India), it was established here.

Near Peshdwer we have a spot also called B4 &my distinguished by its mounds and tamarisk- trees, marking the site of an ancient city; and that this epithet of eminence and distinction was con- tinued up to a recent date we learn from Baber and AbGl Fazil.

The term bk-&m appeara composed of the TCrki b6 or bi (chief) and the Hindi " grb" (city) ; the latter word, while still colloquially employed by the people on the banks of the Indue, was once probably of more general use in the countries of the A f g h h , but has been superseded by tbe Per- sian " sheher," and " abdd," with the Hindi " piir." Besides these four B6grhs, there is Oshter-grh in the Kohistb ; Sal-&my a Hind6 z ' h t in Panjshiu ; Pesh-grim, in BQjor; No-grb, in Phchtii, &c, all sites of considerable antiquity.

It has been obeerved that at the extremity of Koh Bacha is a tope, which on examination fur- nished no useful result. Judging from its appear- ance, it has not so great an antiquity as many others near KAbal and at Jelaabbd.

There is anotller at Alisai, ten or twelve miles east of BCgrh, between the valleys of Nijmw and Taghow; and there is again another and superior -one at Tope Dara, near ChGlk&, which may reason-

166 A N T I Q U ~ OF KOHISTAN.

ably be supposed to have been constructed under the princes of HGp'h. A fourth, moreover, occurs at Korrindar, midway between B6grh and KBbal ; but it has unfortunately happened that no one of these several' monuments has yielded evidences upon which we might decide upon its origin or date.

The Kohisth of KAbal abounds with vestiges of its ancient inhabitants ; they are chiefly, if not ex- clusively, of a sepulchral character, but their p t e r or lese extent with the numbers and varieties of the coins and other relica found at them, may authorize ue to form an estimate of the importance of the p l m which we infer were situated near them. Admitting such criteria, a city of magni- tude must have exbted at PerwAn, about eight miles, bearing north nineteen west, from B&&n, consequently that distance nearer to the great range of Caucasus, under whose inferior hille it is in fact found. Coins are discovered there in large numbers, and there is also a cave remarkable for its dimensions ; while in the hills which aepa- rate it from Sir Aulang, is a takht, or square stone monukent, the sides of which are girt with deco- rative mouldings. The site in Perwh is called by Miihomedans Merwh, and by HindGs Milwh.

At KorahtAs, east of the famed hill and z i h t Mgh Rawh, and on the opposite side of the river to Bggriirn, from which it is distant about six miles, bearing north forty-eight east, coins are nume-

SUBTEIUUNEAN CAVE. 167

rously found, and we have the usual tokens of mounds, fragments of pottery, &c., with remaine of works in maeonry about the hills, which bearing now the appellation of Killa Kiifr, are in truth mpulchral repositories.

At the hill of Mgh Raw& (flowing aand), re- markable for the bed of sand lying upon its southern firce, which gives i t both its name and eingular appearance, is a subterranean cave, which has a descent by hewn, or artificial staira, and may therefore be suppoeed to mean something more fhan the ordinary rock cave. It has never been duly eqlored, and there might be danger in the attempt to descend into it. The Mghomedans 'have made it a eibrat, and have an idea that it is the apot whence their expected I m h M6di will iseue upon earth; and they believe that on roz JGma, or eacffed Friday, the sounds of nag&as, or drums, may be heard in it. It may be observed, that the Md homedan shrines, or by fiu the greater part of them throughout these countries, were originally those of the former idolatrous inhabitants, whom con~eneion to I s l ~ was doubtless facilitated by the policy which dictated the coneemation of their eacred localities, so dear to them from paat asso- ciations and custom. A oompromise was made between them and their converters, similar to that between the Prophet and his Arabs, by which the adored black stone of the latter became the k6ba of the faith propagated by the former.

168 SILVER MINES

In the valley of Panjehir are coneiderable v e s t i m at three distinct localities; one near the castle of SaifGla in Dara Perh6.j; another in Dara B&, near the castle of ZamrGd K h h . It has before been casually remarked, that there is in Panjshir a place of peculiar filigious repute, called by the HindGs SQ-grh, although, from the lawleers habita of the natives of Pmjshir, they seldom venture to vidit it. The. HindGs also consider the word Panj- 0h'u (the five lions) as referring to the five som of PandG. The valley ie even now populous and fertile, and in former times, when these countries were held in due md firm control, must have been of consequence, as affording a facile com- munication with B6dskehh. It had, moreover, a distinct and intrinsic value in its silver mineg which were worked in remote times, as we are told by Abulfeda. There is reason to believe that this metal, in common with many others, abounds in the secondary hills of the Caucasus. The inha- bitants of Panjshir, esteemed by their neighbow and so calling themselves, TAjiks, while they speak Pereian, also underatand the Pashai language.

In Nijrow, as in other valleys of this country, are abundance of mounds and caves: While I was at KLbal chance brought to light a large collection of caves which had formerly been con- cealed under earth. Some of them were described as curious, and their discovery was a subject of wonder for the day to the inhabitants. North-

VISTIGE8 IN TAQHOW. 168

east of this valley afe a few villages belonging to families still retaining the name of Pashai. The natives of Nijrow, eateemed Tkjiks, and conversing with strangers in Persian, generally discourse in Pashai with each other.

The large kalley of Taghow has many vestiges of ita ancient inhabitants, and large parcels of coine have been found among them. It is now held by

. the Shf'i, reputed an Afghh tribe; +ut one of its most considerable daras, or minor valleys, is named Pashih. The tope of Alisai, between Ntrow and Taghow, has been before alluded to.

In the valley of Ghorband, separated from Koh Diman to the west by a high hill range stretching from the Hind6 Kosh, are many and important remains of ancient times. This valley has a direc- tion towards B h h , the H a z h districts of the ShCkh Ali tribe, and of Shibr intervening. At a spot called Nil&b are the ruins of an ancient fortress on the river, which even during the last few years have been rendered more palpably ruins by Dost Miihomed Kh&, who employed elephants in the work of destruction; fearful that his nephew, Habib Ulah Khan, whose authority he had con- tributed to overthrow at KBbal, might have fled to it, and have renewed its defences. At FGlojird, and FerinjAl are remarkable caves; the latter of which Wilford had heard of, and with reference to Hind6 traditions was willing to consider the cave of Pramathas, or Prometheus.

170 GlHARUK TABBI.

In Ghorbind is a celebrated Hind6 z i h t , which they call G h a k Tabs, the equivalent of B6b6 Adam, which merits notice, remembering Wilford's notions that Bbm~h was the Moaaical Eden,--not that I believe it was, but as showing how that singular, but always talented, man's inquiries were directed.

CHAPTER VIII.

M. Honigberger. - His antiquarian operations. - Dr. Gerard. - Adventurea of M. Honigberger. - Departure for Jeldaba. -

. Id Qlh. - Incivility.-Bhiit K W . - Defile of Sokhta Chanlr. - 4 j l guide.- S& BSb6.-BBiSk-fLb.-Taghow4g Toda Baber -hi%. - Jigdillik. - Kotal Jigdill&.-Sbkh Pa. - Old acquaintance.-KhalEl KhWs etwycSamSlchescTrouble- some night. - I(hplil Khh's death. - Qandamak. - Nimla-- Bdla BAgh. - Tbtang. - Aacent of Siah Koh. - Cavea. - Kajari - Gomichi. - Killa K&!?.-Cdea-Exteneive view.

' S h r i n e of Lot. - Large graven. - Shrine of Lam&. - Opi- nions of the people.-!3criptural names.-The Pklt--Seriptural and classical teatimony. -Pa! conqueeta- Early civilization.- Diffusion of their sciences and language. - Judicial astrology- U n i v e d t y of Sl'l language.-Namea of 1ocslitie~-Shrinen.

ON my return to K%bal from my first excursion to Bggr&xi' I had the pleasure to meet M. Martine .Honigberger, from Lahore, who proposed, vid Bok- hiira, to regain his native country. My visits to this gentleman caused me to see frequently the Naw6b Jab& K h h , with whom he resided ; and ;that nobleman issued a standing order that he ~hould be informed whenever I came, and made i t a point to favour us with his company. With M. Honigberger I made a trip to Shakr Dara, with .the view of ascending the high hill Hous Khbt,

but the season being too early we failed to do so, and I nearly perished in the attempt. M. Ho- nigberger subsequently examined several of the topes near Kkbal, and then proceeded to JelQabiid, under the Nawkb's protection, where he instituted a series of operations on the DarGnta group ; and had not his apprehensions been excited by certain rumours as to the intentions of Naw&b Miihomed Z e m h K h h , and Si rdk Stiltih MBhomed KhAn of Peshhwer, then a guest of the Nawkb, it is poe- sible little would have remained for my ultimate examination. As it was, he precipitately retired to KPbal. His labours have had the advantage of having been made known to the European world by the late regretted Eugene Jacquet. A t the cloee of autumn our European society was aug- mented by the amval of Dr. Gerard, the companion of Lieutenant Burnes, and a few days a h r his da- parture for Lfidlha M. Honigberger set out with a kafila for B o k h k

A t Ak Itobiit, a march beyond Wh , he was maltreated and plundered. Dost Miihomed K h h , I fear, was not innocent in this matter; nor does it extenuate his guilt that he was led to sanction the injury offered to M. Honigberger by the re- presentations of the profligate AbdGl Samad. Niiz M b m e d , the governor of B h i h , waa a creature of the latter; and the chief of Kabal while he furnished M. Honigberger with letters directing every attention to be paid to him, placed his seal

HIS TREATMENT AT AK ROBAT. 178

on the wrong side of the paper, by which it understood that the reverse of what waa written was to be done by thoee to whom they were ad- dressed. Private instructions of course did the rest ; and it would appear that M. Honigberger very nar- rowly escaped being put to death. AbdGl Samad complained that he had met with ill-treatment at the hands of the F'rench officers in the PanjAb. Sub- sequently the Nawkb Jab& K h h purchased from Nfb Mhhomed some, or all, of the articles plundered, and sent them to M. Allard at Lahore, for trans- mission to M. Honigberger. The affiir created a great expression of disgust at KAbal, indeed h t Miihomed K h h , in removing N i k Mdhomed from the government of B6mih soon after, made his criminal conduct the plea for his disgrace. The n a d b was anxious that I should reside with him when M. Honigberger left, but I declined, as I was doing very well whew I was, and purpomd to repair to JeliilaMd for the winter.

I was about to start, when the nawiib entreated me to defer my depaxture for a few days, and accom- pany him. As I did not consent, the good-natured nobleman sent me a message to the effect that he would come to my house in the BQla Hi&, and have me locked up. I could not divine the meaning of his solicitude, but nevertheless deter- mined upon proceeding, when, finding I was not to be diverted from my purpose, he made me promise that I would go to his castle at Tgtang, and not

quit it until he came. So much arranged, he di- rected a Ghilji, GG1 Mhhomed, to be ready to ac- company me, and instructed me, at the first stage of BhGt Kh&, to pass the night a t his castle.

I lea KAbal with my own aervante; the Ghilji guide, and a mirza who had agreed to become one of our p b y , being to join ue at the nawkb's castle at BhGt Kh&. I had not seen the mtle, and had been misdirected, or had misunderstood the direc- tions given to me, and made for Kilh Mosan, un- der the ridge bounding the plain of Kibal to the south. In route from the D e r w h ShAh ShC- hid we passed the eminence and z i h t of %fib Sang to your left, overlooking the Id G a , or space where the annual and public festivals are mle- brated, and where, in expeditions to the east, the fish-khha, or advanced tents of the chiefs, are pitched preparatory to the assembly of the army, and to marching. In the short distance between this spot and the D e r w k Shah ShGhid, about half a mile, the unfortunate Shgh Siijiih a1 MGIkh would appear to have been aasasainated.

Crossing the emall rise, called Kotal Yek Lnn- gar, with the ruinous castle of Kilh GGrji on its crest, we descended into the plain of Kamari, a vil- lage of that name k ing to our right, and to our left another, called Kills Ahmed KhAn. At this point also the road is intersected by the canal JGi Khwoja, derived from the Loghar river, which at eome distance farther we crowed by a dilapidated

bridge of brick-work and masonry, the vilIage of Bkgrlm lying immediately to our right. A little beyond the river we struck across the plain to- wards Killa Mosan, believing it to be the nawtb's castle. We found our error; but ita Afghh occu- pante were very willing we should have p a d the night with them. We declined their proffered civi- vility with thanks, and made acrow the plain in a northerly direction for the nawgb's castle. Mid- way we passed BhGt Kh&, a large encloaed agricultural village, desolate in appearance, but memorable in the traditions of the country as the place where SGlth MihmGd broke up the idols of SamnAth, whence ita name. On arrival a t the nawiib's castle I was surprised to meet with an uncivil reception. I inquired for MGkhtahSr K h b , the intendant, to whom the duty of receiving ns fell, and the fellow did not deign to notice me. I accordingly turned to the right-about, and retro- graded to BhGt Kh&, where I passed the night in the sambches, or caves, which are, indeed, umd haltr ing-places for kiifilas and travellers. BhGt Kh& is the station of a karijghir, or collector of duties, and has a h e rivulet to the east. The aamhchee in which we lodged have their corresponding small tumuli, proving the character of the spot. The vil- lage is the last occurring on the plaiis of Kkbal to the east, and beyond it commences the hilly coun- try, extending to Jelhlabiid. In a line to the south of it terminates the ridge of S h S h Bsrants, around

176 DEFILES OF SOKIITA CHANAR.

whose extremity leads the high road to KhGrd K&- bal, or little Khbal, and Tbzin.

Early in the morning I despatched one of my people to the nawhb's castle to ascertain whether the mirza had arrived. He met him coming to me, with a host of the nawbb's people, sent from Khbal by their master to do me honour. 'Shey were much chagrined at the untoward reception I experienced from MGkhtahib Khan, and said they were at a loss what report to make to their master. I found afterwards that the man's incivility cost him his employment, and I had the task of inter- ceding for his pardon and reinstatement. The Ghilji guide did not, however, make his appearance, and deciding to move on without him, we debated as to what road should be followed, and that of Sokhta Chaniir was fixed upon. Accordingly, we crossed the rivulet of BhGt KhQk, and traversing an uneven undulating tract, entered the hills on our right. At their entrance was a small valley, with the remains of a castle, a little cultivated land, and a clear rivulet. From it the road led through a continued defile, and we were embar- ed by ice and frozen anow, particularly during the first part of our progress, when a rivulet accompa- nied us. On reaching a epot with a few samiicha we halted, and were joined by the Ghilji, commis- sioned by the naw&b to attend us, who proved to be the same person who had escorted Dr. Gerard and his party. W e now moved forwards with

VICINITY OF TEZIN. 177

greater confidence; indeed we had not prudently left BhGt KhBk without our guide, but fortune had befriended us. On entering the hills f ob- served my companion, the mirza, turn pale, and he did not then tell me what was the matter. H e had noticed a party of robbers sitting on the hills abgve us, over a fire. They did not descend, as we were armed and mounted ; but we learned, subsequently, that they intercepted some pedestrians, and drivers of asses, in our rear. I did not see these men.

As we approached the vicinity of TCzin the rocks were remarkably contorted, and throughout the de- files were many indications of copper, a metal more or less abundant in the hills of this part of the country. W e at length came into a valley, through which flowa the rivulet from TCzh, now on our right, where we found a few camels laden with chaff, and the proprietors, ChGli Zai A f g h h , be- ing willing to supply our cattle, we determined to halt with them for the night, the rocks being dis- posed so as to exclude the wind, at this season justly dreaded. The early part of the night passed mildly, but afterwards, as we heard the shrill whist- ling of the breeze, we congratulated ourselves on being sheltered from its violence.

By sunrise we were on the move, and passed down the valley, spacious and open, but the sur- face broken and stony, in many places sprinkled with low trees and shrubs, until we reached the z i h t of S h Bbb4 or the three fathers, the shrine of

VOL. 111. N

all the robbers of the country, who make this spot a favourite resort, and perform pilgrimage, and plun- der travellers at the same time. It is conveniently located for the exercise of their calling; three of the roads from Kkbal, those of TCzin, Sokhta Chanbi, and Lattaband, meet at it. The z i h t is a grave in an enclosure of loose stones, distinguished by a large tree bedizened with rags and shreds. W e here turned to our right, the road leading over a jum- ble of sandstone hills, inducing a variety of ascents and descents before we reached the narrow length- ened valley of BGikAb, so called from a slender rivulet which flows down it.

On the heights were the remains of an old Chaghatai castle, and a recent one, built by Amir Miihomed Khhn, for the protection of the road. There are also several samGchee, now used by the traveller, but which, from the many tumuli apparent, were originally constructed with a different object. From BGk-ib we continued our progress over the same elevated and diversified country, and enjoyed from the rounded summits of the hills a fine view of the open valley of Taghow, about twenty-five miles distant, and of the intervening depressed hilly space, through which flow the rivers of the Kohistin and of Kibal. The valley of Taghow appeared studded with castles and gardens, denoted by the dense dark masses speckling its surface, and has evidently a marked slope from the north to the south. W e also advantageously beheld the lofty m g e dividing

SANG TODA BABER PADSHAH. 179

Taghow from the more easternly districts of LGgh- m b and Nadjil, with its acute pyramidical peaks, and north of it the snowy summits of Koh Kohand, which intervenes between Panjshir and the moun- tainous seats of the Siiiposh KMrs. Descending in- to the spacious stony valley of Kattar Sang, we met a strong khfila from Peshiiwer, and coming to a ri- vulet we halted, and made our breakfast. Leaving the valley, we again crossed an uneven tract, but with greater extent of level surface. A heap of stones was pointed out aa the Sang Toda Baber Piidshiih, and is believed to have been raised by the soldiers of Baber's army, each soldier, agreeably to the emperor's orders, contributing a stone. A little beyond i t are the walls of a small square building, near which two or three fellows were skulking. W e rode up to it to see that no robbers were lurking within it, and farther on reached the summit of a hill, on which were the ruinous walls of two Chaghatai castles, and below us the dara, or valley of Jigdillik, with a good rivulet, and the remains of a garden planted by TaimGr S h a , in which his unfortunate son, Sh& Zemh, waa deprived of sight, when deli- vered by Malek Ashak to Assad Khiln, brother of the Vazir Fatl K h b . W e passed the night in some samGches, of which there are aeveral, with a number of tumuli on either side of the valley. Higher up in it are again others ; and besides a few scanty groves of mulberry-trees, on an eminence, is - the village of Jigdillik, now deserted, having been

N 2

180 JIQDILLIK.

but a short time since given over to plunder by M6- homed Akbar K h h . The inhabitants, Afghflns, had dispersed, until they should be invited to resume their seats. W e with difficulty procured necessa- ries, and GG1 M6homed had to scour the country in quest of them. Jigdillik, from the misfortune of 6h& Zemh, had acquired a local celebrity, which has now become more general, and wofully enhanced to us, since its cheerless and desolate glens have witnessed the destruction of the wrecks of our ill- fated K&bal force.

From Jigdillik we ascended a dara, gradually con- , tracting until we came to the foot of a slight kotal, called the Kotal of Jigdillik. On its crest were the remains of a Chaghatai castle, and but for the hazy weather we should have had a magnificent view of the low country of Jelidabdd beneath us. This kotal is now, and has probably always been, the limit of the K&bal and Jeliilabtid jurisdictions ; and on that ac- count, and with reference to the habits of the neigh- bouring tribes, it was anciently deemed a position worthy of being protected, as is manifest by the remains of its castles, more than usually extensive. Baber was here opposed in one of his expedition% and it is possible that to the establishment, by his orders, of a line of posts and stations between Kibal and Atak, the castle, whose remains we see, was owing, as well as many of the other fortresses, known at the present day as Chaghatai killas, however his successors may have improved and added to them. .

OLD ACQUAINTANCE. 181

The descent was continual, without being preci- pitous, and the snow diminished every step we ad- vanced, until at last we left it fairly behind u& On arrival at a Iod i ty called Lokhi, where to the right is a rivulet in a bed overspread with reeds, our guide asked permission to visit E-Iisaiirak, a little right of the road, where he said hie family resided. I t was granted, as he promised to join us at SGrkh Pbl. W e did not suspect he had other motives until we reached that place, so called from a bridge built by Ali M i r d h K h h over the S h k h Rbd, or red river, which crosses the road, and glides into the valley of Kangkarrak. It seemed that our friend had some altercation with the karijghim, or toll- collectors, when attending Dr. Gerard and his party. Anticipating that we should encounter similar diffi- culties, he had wisely put himself out of the way, and left us to arrange matters ourselves. We pass- ed the bridge and made a short halt. I went to see a Persian inscription on a rock, recording its foundation, when one of the collectors came to me and asked if I was the owner of the homea. I replied " Yes (" when he said, " Take them before the khh," point- ing to a person mapped in a posth and sitting with- in a circle of stones, by the side of the road. I shook my head ; and he then said, " Go, and have a little iktaliit, or conversation with the khb." I again shook my head, for I could not conceive who the khkn could be in such a place. The mirza, who had joined, expressed his intention of waiting upon

Khalil Khhn. On hearing the name, I asked what Khalil K h b i t was, and was told, Khalil Khhn of &fit. cc Oh, then," I exclaimed, " I will go myself." I had soon the satisfaction of shaking hands with an old friend, whose civilities to me in my first visit to these countries I have before recorded. I could not refuse to pass the evening with him ; and men .were despatched to TGtG, two cosses distant, for a sheep, barley, and chaff, while cakes, cheese, and honey were immediately placed before us. W e talked over the events which had befallen us since we first met, and the k h h gave a strange account of his disasters. H e said he was overwhelmed with debts, and that his fine castles in BisGt were mort- gaged. H e was farther embarrassed in his accounts with the Nawkb 1CIiihomed Z e m h K h b , from whom he farmed the transitduties of Jeliilabiid, and who occasionally resumed them,-but finding no per- son collect them so well, was compelled to trans- fer them again to him, notwithstanding the liberty he took in withholding the receipts. H e told me, that he did not care a fig for the nawkb, that he had married two or three daughters of the Ghiljb in the neighbourhood, and was in rebellion whenever money was demanded from him. I congratulated him in being, in one respect, in so thriving a way. A n elderly staid gentleman coming towards us, the k h h observed, that the scoundrel was one of his cre- ditors, who gathered up the monies as he collected them from kifilas.

A TROUBLESOME NIGHT. 183

Tea being brought for me, the k h b complained of headache, and referred i t to the beverage, of which he drank two cups; I rather suspected the evil waa owing to his sitting the whole day in the sun, which, however, he said, was his custom. Some of his young men brought in some partridges, which were gnlled, and served to us, and, it being evening, we retired to samGches, excavated by the khan him- self, and in which he resided, or rather passed his nights. He was very proud of them, as being me- morials which would confer immortality upon him, and showed me a substance which he had found in .course of the work, which cut glass, and which he fancied to be a diamond. The samGches were oppressively hot, and I certainly should have pre- ferred the open air. After an excellent supper, the h a produced a book, the Khalil wa Damnah, and recited, to the great apparent satisfaction of the kh& .and himself for the rest of the evening. I sat until I could not keep my eyes longer open, and went to repose on a chahihpihi, at the ex- tremity of the samhch. It waa in vain that I courted sleep, which, if the -heat of the apartment would have permitted, the mthmatic cough of the old gentleman creditor prevented. I had not ex- pected another cause of interruption, offered by Khalil K h h himself, who throughout the night kept up an incessant series of shouts, groans, and sighs, intermixed with ejaculations of Sokhtam ! sokhtam ! I burn ! I burn ! and Oh ! Khodii ! Oh !

KhodA! toba ! toba ! haz6r toba ! OhGod ! oh God ! repentance ! repentance ! a thousand times repen- tance ! I was alarmed, but observed that no one took any notice ; and the old gentleman, whose cough made him pace the samhch a good part of the night, passed and repassed the chahiirpAhi, on which the poor k h h was extended, perfectly in- different to his torments ; wherefore I concluded the exhibition was an ordinary one. I went through a singular night, and heartily rejoiced a t the break of day, which enabled me to quit the samGch. The old gentleman requested a remedy for dil-dard, and professed to be eased by a decoction of clovea Khalil KhAn complained of fever. A few days after the unhappy man died; and his corpse was carried past Tbtang, where I was staying, in its way to B'isht for interment. Some time after I met the old creditor at Jelilabid, and observing " So poor Khalil K h h is gone," asked of what dis- order he died, and was told that H h t Ali had slain him, weary of having his name profaned, and of hearing the pe juries he uttered.

Having breakfasted, we bade farewell to the K h b , and passed over an uneven country, the road tolerably good, until we came to a rivulet, which we crossed, and ascending a short but ab- rupt kotal, found ourselves on the table-land of Gandamak. Afar off we had descried a horse standing on the summit, which we rightly con- jectured to be that of t.he Ghilji p'ide. W e d-

lied him on leaving us at the mercy of the karij- ghm. W e halted at Gandamak, although we had only marched three cosses, as we could command supplies and good accommodation. The village, once enclosed within walls, does not contain above forty or fifty houses, but has some halfdozen Hind& shopkeepers, and it is famed for its fine mulberries. South of the village is a royal garden, all but destroyed. There are two or three castles adjacent, one called Killa Gandamak, another be- longs to Meherdiid Khtln, Popal Zai, and anciently Harkdm Bbhi. There is dso much cultivated land, water being plentiful. The inhabitants are of the Koh* tribe, that formerly possessed the country to the west, held by the Jabir KhCl Ghil- jis, who expelled them. They now occupy in this vicinity, besides Gandamak, the villages T6tG K e jar, Nimla, Fatiabiid, &c. They claim to be re- lated to the Ghiljis, who do not acknowledge the affinity, and apparent1 y with reason. Gandamak, from its elevated site, has s climate cool in com- parison with that of the lower plains of Jeliilabiid, and the people, in common with those of the dis- tricts of the contiguous Saf6d Koh, tend silk- worms.

From Gandamak we came to the villages of Hiahem KhCl and Bela KhCI, with the N a i b ri- vulet, over which is a ruinous bridge of two arches, picturesque in decay. To our right were the vil- lages and castles of Nokar KhCl, and above them,

is6 BAUA BAQH.

at the skirts of the SaGd Koh, the villages of M h k h i Kh&l, Zoar, &c. In place of following the high road, which leads to Nimla, we took one to our left, over the table space of BAmak, from which we had an admirable view of the valley, village, and royal garden of Nimla, This village. is a small one of eighty houses, but the garden appears very advantageously with its tall cypress- trees. It is famed for narcissuses, posies of which are sent as presents to KabiU. The unopened buds are selected for transport, and they expand on be- ing placed in water. From the table space of Bii- mak we desended into the valley of the Sbrkh RGd river, at a point called Kangkarrak, where is a small collection of ancient caves. We halted there, and breakfasted. W e now observed many plants of warm climates, strangere to Kiibal, and the milky iik-bush became abundant. W e traced the southern ~k i r t s of the narrow valley, passing many hamlets, small castles, and much cultivation, and finally came to BQla BAgh, a small walled-in town, seated on the very bank of the river, on the opposite side of which is the site of the city of AdinrtpGr, flourishing in the time of Baber.

About a mile west of the town is a garden, tlie Chahb B k h , planted by that prince, and which he calls Bkh-i-Wafa H e vaunts the strong po- sition of the fortress of Adinapbr, which I could never detect, unless a mass of ruins on an emi- nence, near some triangular entranced caveq denote .

it, and if so, however extensive, i t would appear to have been very loosely constructed. BQla BAgh is a commercial little town, and HindGs in great

- numbers reside at it. The revenue is enjoyed by Miihomed OsmAn K h h , son of the late NawAb Samad Khan, who was expelled from Kohit by Ph Miihomed K h h , of Peshiiwer. Two or three hundred men were employed in widening the trench, it being said that Dost Mkhomed K h h was expected. W e were now gratified by the sight of luxuriant fields of sugar-cane. A little beyond Billa Bkgh we crossed the Sbrkh RGd, a rapid stream, and with water to our horses' girths. Passing a variety of hamlets and fortlets, with the village of Kotipdr, we arrived at the nawAb Jabsi. KhAn's seignorial castle of Titang, where we were received with all honour by his intendant AbdG- Iah, and presently installed in apartments over the principal gateway, whence we commanded a noble view of the valley of Jelhlabiid and the country to the east. This castle was built by the nawAb when governor of the Ghiljis of KAbal, and when he could call forth the labourers of the country at discretion. He fixed upon a waste, neglected spot, therefore called Tiitang, which in Pashthi implies desolate, and to reclaim it directed his attention. The site had been anciently occupied by a castle called Killa U j p G t b , or the castle of the RajpGts, and waa con- nected by tradition with the period of RBjpGt sway in these countries. Two or three substantial towers

188 GARDENS.

CASTLB OF TATANO.

were yet existing, and the nawib has often assured me it employed more labour to remove them than was required to raise the new castle. A superior castle, with very lofty walls and towers, has been erected. To the east, or front, is a large public garden, with handsome summer-house and bathe for the accommodation of guests, and adjoining the southern front of the building is another pri- vate garden. Both are stocked with flowers, and at this time displayed large expanses of red and white tuberoses. In the evening the fragrance of the atmosphere was delightful. The trees in these gardens, as over the estate, are but young, although some of the c y p r e m have attained a moderate

EXCURSION. 189

height. About eighteen kolbahs of land appertain to the nawiib, who has purchased the whole of it, but at very low prices. There was formerly no water, or little in the neighbourhood, a deficiency which the nawAb has obviated by bringing a ca- nal from the Shrkh RGd, opposite Bdlla BBgh, along the skirts of the hills, at the foot of which Tdtang lies. Within the csstle there is a spaci- ous residence for his family, provided with all due appendages, as baths, &c., and about thirty-five house^, for his tenants and agriculturists. The estate is now in pretty good order, and in course of time will be a magnificent one, as additions are every year made to it, by purchases of the adjoining lands. The nawiib takes great pride in it, and is never so happy as when walking over his grounds, planting trees, widening canals, or feasting upon the beautiea of his flower-gar- dens. A doubtful politician and statesman, his skill as a husbandman is denied by no one.

I fulfilled my promise to the nawiib of not wan- dering far from his castle, yet I did not neglect the immediate environs, which to me had at least the charm of novelty to recommend them. One of my first excursions was to the summit of the range overshadowing us, and which, extending from Jigdillik to DarGnta, separates the valleys of Nin- grah6.r and LGghmiin. It is called Khndaghar by Afghbs, Biigh Atak by Tlijiks, and Koh Bolan by the people of LGghmiin. I t is also frequently

190 GLEN OF KAJARI.

called Si6h Koh, or the black hill, in contradis- tinction to the magnificent range of the SaGd Koh, or white hill, on the opposite, or eouthern line of the valley. From T6tang a glen, called Kajari, in a north-west direction, extends to the main body of the range, and early one morning I started to proceed up i t and gain the crest of the hills, at- .

tended by one of my servants and an Afghh guide, FerdGsi. At the opening of the glen upon the plain round conglomerate hills occur on either side, composed of boulders of moderate dimensions, combined by a calcareous cement. This species of rock is very liable to delapse, and huge frag- ments, fallen from above, strew the narrow valley. From the same reason, towards the summits, many of t.hem have a scarped perpendicular line of many feet in depth, which has caused their selection for the excavation of eamGches. Here are many of those acetical residences ; and the hills abound with vestiges of wall4 ramparts, and pottery-ware, indicative of the former character of the locality. As we ascend up the glen we tread upon a series of stratified and schistose rocks, at firat barely peering above the surface, but gradually rising in altitude. Amongst these we observed some of the impressions, common enough in these regions, appa- rently of the hoof of an animal. Here, as well q everywhere else, I have seen them ; they are found in a certain kind of black stone. Three bundred yards from its commencement the glen contracts,

and a short tanghi, or defile, is passed, where is a very beautiful object in an excavated arched recess, made in ancient times for the sake of ob- taining a&h, or the sub-acetate of iron, which completely pervades the rock. The people at pre- sent employ it to strike a black dye on cloths

- previously saturated in a decoction of pomegranate rind. The spot is particularly picturesque, from the nature of the stratified rocks, and the vari- ously tinged yellow and green. hues caused by the presence of the ziikh. It is a fairy scene, and the grot of Oberon could not be more fanciful or fan- tastic. Beyond it the glen expands, and the en- closing hills to the west are again provided with caves. Here is also a warm spring, and a clump of productive date-trees, which give a name to the glen, which throws off a branch to the west, leading to MirnG, a spot inhabited by Afghh pas- toral families. At this point is a small, but deep dand, or pool of water, its borders fringed with that species of reeds from which the kalams, or pens of the country, are fashioned. W e traced the northern branch of the glen, being anxious to eee some remains we had heard of, the first said to be at a spot called Goraichi, a place of Hind6 pilgrimage. In fact, we found scratched on the rocks a variety of rude figures, of men on elephants and horses, and of men on foot, armed with bows and arrows, of stags and lions, of hares, and other animals. It was impossible to decide whe-

102 KILLA KAPR.

ther the figures were owing to single design or were the result of casual and occasional contributions. If the former, i t may have been intended to repre- sent a battle, or hunting--scene. The figures were too rudely scratched to deserve much attention, neither could anything useful be learned from them ; but, surmounting the rocks on which they are found, we presently came upon some more substantive re- mains, in walls and parapets of masonry, on the crest, and encircling the sides of an eminence. This locality, as all similar ones are, was called Killa Kur , or the infidel's fortress. A line of wall was carried round three sides of the peak; the fourth, presenting an abrupt perpendicular escarp- ment, rendered its continuation unnecessary. The entrance faced the west. At the eastern point were the remains of a circular tower. Beneath the superior line of wall, on the acclivities of the eminences, parapets had been raised; the intervals between them and the inclined surface of the rock were filled up with pure sifted earth. From these spots funereal jars, containing dark-coloured earth, bones, and fragments of charcoal, had been pro- cured, establishing the fact of the sepulchral nature of the locality. The walls on the summit enclosed a variety of small apartments, the partition walls of which were entire, and which seemed to point out the residences of the various persons connected with the establishment. It could scarcely be doubt- ed tbat i t was the ancient burial-place of some

ANCIENT BURIAL PLACES. 193

village on the plain. . Skirting the hills to the esst, I afterwards found many such places were to be found, some of them much more considerable thah the one here. They occur continuously, ss it were, until we reach the termination of the range, where, for the last two or three miles, is dispersed the group of the topes of DarGnta. To the westward we also discover them ; the remaine at the site of Adinapbr, whether or not denoting the fort- so favourably spoken of by Baber, am of the same character, and similar vestiges present themselves until we reach the caves of Kangkarrak, and even beyond them. In all instanma the rational inference is, that they refer to 'villages formerly located, as at the present day, on the plains beneath them, and that their retired situation was selected in con- formity to the custom and religion of the time; of which the ever-present cave attests, that seclu- sion and asceticism were prominent features. In like manner, we account for the antique evidences to be found on the skirts of the various hills of Afghhistb, all of which exhibit them, and i t is only natural they should, for there were villages, of course, in all directions, as now, in the plains at their feet; and every village as naturally had ite place of squlture.

The view of the country from Killa KAfi being extensive, I took a few bearings, and then retraced my steps, to gain the road leading to the summit of the range. It continued very fair and even for

VOL. n~. o

194 SHRINE OF LAMECH.

some time,,md brought us to a waterfitll, of fifty or sixty feet in height. As we ascended we were gra- tified by the sight of a much more considerable fall, or rather sucoesaion of falls, the superior one of great height. There wss little water, and it was clear that such objects, to be seen to advantage, should be visited after rains and floods. There are many of them in various parts of the range. The difficulty of our journey increased as we n e d the summit, though the hill offered no impediment to our ascent beyond that presented by ita inclination, and it was only after repeated halts that we attained the object of our journey; and certainly our toil wae well repaid by the wide, the varied, and magnificent ecenery on all sides. To the north we had under our observation the valleys of LGghrnh, with their towns, villages, castle, and cultivated lands, bounded by Koh Karinj ; beyond which a jumble of hills de- signated the abodes of the mysterious and imper- fectly known Siiposh races. To the west of the LGghmh valley stretched a cheerless barren ex- panse to the ranges separating i t from Taghow, and the lands of the SUibzAda Uzb'ms. At the point where it connected with the cultivated plain, near the town of Tiigari, a solitary dome indicated the z i h t of M6tar L h Sfiib, or the supposed grave of the patriarch Lhech . The towns, village%, and castles appeared as minute specks upon the plain, but they were specially distinguished by the vene- rable gaz-trees of their z i h t s . W e had an admi-

VARIOUS PROSPECTS. 195

rable view of the rivers of Alinpir and Al'lsbang, winding like slender rivulets in their courses, and effecting their junction at Tiigari, and subsequently a t Mandariiwar uniting with the river of Kiibal. Directing our sight to the eaat, we commanded a view up the valley of Khonar as far as Ialhabird, where it waa intercepted by the snowy range aep* rating it from Bbjor, and which confines to the eaat the course of the river of K h e h , whioh we had dm the gratification to descry in ita meanders along the contraded valley. Turning round, the valley of JeMlabiid and of the Kiibal river was fully deve- loped, bounded by the hills of the Momande and Khaibaria, intervening between it and Peshbwer. To the south we had a glorioue prospect of the Sari5 Koh range, the limitary boundary of the val- leya of Ningrahk and Banph, and of the nnm* rous districts at its skirts. To the west, our obser- vation included A m h Koh, and snowy peaks in the vicinity of Ktlbal ; but the atmosphere was hazy in this quarter. Our admiration at the noble pros- pect made us think of leaving the hill with regret, but we had reached late, and after taking my ob- servations upon the principal localities within view, I wae compelled to descend. Our downward course wae easy, and we regained Tbtang a little after sunset.

Within a mile from T h g , in a valley of this hill-range, ia the z i h t , or ahrine of H h t LGt Paigambar, supposed to be the grave of no less

0 2

196 LbROE GRAVES.

a personage than the scriptural patriarch Lot. Such an object necessarily commanded my atten- tion, and I therefore one evening walked to it. I found one of those graves of extraordinary dimen- sions which abound in this country; and more sparingly are found westward, as at Kkbal, and in the Hazhjht . The grave in question was about thirty-three yards in length, and was enclosed by a wall, rudely constructed of stones. It had the usual concomitants, of poles surmounted with flap, of lamps, and a spring of water contiguous. A path leads from it to m a B&h, which, as well aa the immediate vicinity of the grave, is kept carefully clean, as the inhabitants of that place, both Miihomedan and Hindti, consfantly repair to it, and hold it in special reverence. Adjacent to it is a smaller grave, believed to be that of a rela- tive of the patriarch. A t the bead of the grave, the assiduity of pilgrims has accumulated a rich cabinet of the mineralogical specimens of the hills, for it is usual to deposit in such localities any rare or curious natural object of the kind which may be found. They are also partially strewed over the entire surface. On this amount the mineralogist should always visit the shrines in a Mdhomedan country, as he will find there collected what i t would cost him much trouble to acquire in their dispersed state; the naturalist will also meet with antlers and horns of extraordinary di- mensions, and the antiquarian may chance to dis-

OPINIONS OF THE PEOPLE. 197

cover fragments of sculptured stones, and inscribed slabs. The numbera in which these large graves occur in the valleys of NingrahL naturally preased on my mind the consideration of their nature. It was unnecessary to believe, with the people of these parts, that they covered the remains of giants, which they infer Hhzrat LGt, and the other patri- archa, to have been; and it was obvious that their direction from north to south was strictly orthodox and Mhhomedan. In most situations they are ziihta; and thoae which are not are etill beheld reverentially, their holy character being acknow- ledged, while it is regretted that no revelation has disclosed to whom they relate. The more celebrated of these large graves, is that of M h L h SBhib, or the patriarch h e c h , in LGghmib, known in Europe from ita connexion with the traditionary history of SGlh MtihmGd, and by the notice Wilford has taken of it. In fixing the antiquity of these memorials we are not abso- lutely without guide& On the plain of Jelhlabiid many are found on the summits of the tumuli of the middle ages, whose epoch we am warranted to conclude from the coins and relics picked up on their surface, or elicited by excavation, to have been anterior indeed, but frequently very little so, to the Miihomedan conquests. Nothing can be more certain than that the graves, in such posi- tions, are to the tumuli on which they are formed. I therefore suppose that they are

the graves of MQhomedans who flourished in the time of the Caliphat mle, and who, falling probably in action with infidels, have been interred with extraordinary honour. I have had occasion to re- mark, that the shrines of the ancient superstitions of the country have, palpably, been legitimatieed by the early MGslim invaders ; and this fact may account for the presence of these graves in sites which, if only sepulohral, will still have had a religious and venerated character. On many of the tumuli where these monuments are found thew are gaz, or tamarisk-trees, of great size, and of at least as remote an age as the gravea they overshadow. To S G l k M6hmGd traditionary re- cord imputes the reclamation of these graves, and the revelation, imparted in a dream, that the sepulchre of the patriarch L b e c h was unknown and dishonoured in the country.

The inhabitants of B6Ua B&gh believe that the existence of the shrine in their environs conduces to the prosperity of the town, and those of LGgh- m h ascribe the productiveness of their lands to their good fortune in possessing the shrine of the illustrious Lbech . In these degenerate days neither has any endowment: the contributions of the pious, and the offerings of pagrime, are the sources from which their little establishment8 are kept up.

I t may deserve notice, tbat many ldcalitiea in Afghhbtib bear scriptural namm: KQbal itself iu

that of a place in Palestine, noticed by the author of the Book of Joshua, chap. xix. verses 24 to 30, when describing the allotment of the tribe of Asher. It again occurs in Kings, where Hiram, the prince of Tpre, dissatisfied with the twenty cities made over to him by Solomon, confers upon them the name of KQbal, which Josephw explains to mean worthless, or unprofitable. In like manner we have Zoar, Shinar, Giza, She- Sidim, Tabar, A m h , Kergha-to mention only a few instances- all of which we find not only in the Scriptures, but in the earlier of them; .and i t is clear that they were names borne by the localities when they became first known to the Israelites, and that they were not conferred by the latter. It need not be doubted that they am P a names, given by the PU'l settlers in that region, called PAl'hth, or land of the PiX, the original of our Palestine ; and these P&Ii are again the Philistines, (a plural term,) so

' long the memorable antagoniete of the Hebrews. If we inquire who these PAli were, we learn from Genesis that they were deecendanta of Ham, in the line of Mizraim; and if we consult classical authorities, we are informed by Diodorus that they were one of the great Scythian families, the other being the Niip5; and we are farther told, that a t a very remote time they overran sll Asia, and penetrated into Europe, and the islands of the Mediterranean. Of these PQli conquests I am not aware that we have any other positive record,

200 PAL1 CONQUESTS.

but they are filly confirmed by vestiges left be- hind in all the countries they are said to have subdued. Tyre, or correctly TGr, was, as Sbrabo mys, more anciently c d e d Psi-ttr: the Pi% tGr or fort; and Rome succeed& a Pi%-tan, the P a town, on the hill we call Palatine; while innume- rable plactes throughout Italy, Greece, Sicily, and the Mediterranean isles, as well as throughout Aeia, attest the presence of theae anoient people. Their conquests are, moreover, of the first import- ance; for, connecting'the evidence of Scripture with that of Diodorus, we find that subsequent to, if not consequent upon, the dispersal at Babel, the PU must have spread themselves into the regions known to the ancients as Scythia, as they re- turned from them in their career of victory, men- tioned by the historian. In their first movements towarda the east they necessarily carried with them d their arts and sciences. And on this point the testimony of Scripture is most valuable, for in apprising us of their a M t y with the descend'- ants of Mizraim, it leaves no room to doubt that they were as proficient in them as were those with whom they were connected; and it is need- lees to ad-vert to the early state of society and civilieation in Egypt, unlese to suggest that the countries into which the PAli spread may have been at the same time equally under similar in- fluences; and we can but remember that in China there would always appear to have existed a civil-

DIPPUSION OF LANGUAGE. 201

ieed people. A t Babylon Alexander the Great was presented with a series of astronomical calcu- latione, extending for a certain number of years, within ten of the date generally assigned to the erection of the tower of Babel. It has been sus- pected that one of the objects of the tower may have been to fscilitate such obeervations, probably for the sake of the predictions deduced from them ; and it is curious to find that in China and in India, from the earliest times, judicial astrology has been a favourite study, and the principal means by which a crafty hierarchy have imposed upon the deluded imaginations of the people. Would not the Pgili have carried that science with them ? Recent dis- coveries in India, and in Central h i a , have proved that the language of those countries at the period of the Macedonian conquests was Piili. Sanscrit turns out to be Pi%; the language of Persia a t the time of Darius Hystaspes, was Piili ; Phe- nician we know to be P&li: facts undeniable, and in unison with authority we feel all inclination to respect and venerate, while they are singular only because they disturb erroneous impressions, long current and cheriehed. There are many pointa in connexion with the P&li of engrossing interest, to discuss which would carry me beyond the limit prescribed for such matters in these volumes; i t will be sufficient, after what has been observed, to point out that the occurrence of P&li names, whether in Afghanistin or Palestine, is no cause

202 NAMES OF PLACES.

for wonder; had they not occurred there would have been. Besides PU' names, the Afghh coun- tries preserve in their localities names of the several races which have successively overrun them. Hence we have Arab, MjpGt, TGrki, Pereian, aa well as other appellations ; and the various remark- able shrines owe, no doubt, their nomenclature to the early Miihomedans, who thereby made the ex- isting sacred places their own.

CHAPTER IX.

Dost MBhomed Khfin's designa-Movements of Shiih SGj& a1 Mhlldr. - Arrival of Meber Dil KhEm. - ShltAn Mdhomed K W s vieit to J&Md.-Plots. - Dost Mdhomed miin's feinte. - Extortions - Projects and counter-projects. - Designs disclosed-Hiiji KhCn discarded.-March of Dost Mhhomed K h h . - Mir Afzil ghiln. - H i ingenuity. - Submission of Mhhomed O m h Khh-Messwee of Mbhomed Z e k Khirn. -Assault and capture of Jel&Md.-Plunder of town.-Ar- rival of Newlib Jab& K h h -Attempt to assassinate Doet Mdhomed Khh.-Fate of aimusin.-M6homed Z e m h Khfin's conduct.-Hie recent re-appeersnea-Disposal of JeliilaW- Seizure of chiefi of Khoner and Mp6ra-Abdd QhiaG Khh. -His propoeed mission to India-Dost Mhomed Kh6n's ob- jectiona--Secret departwe.-Altercation at Dk-Obstinacy of companiona-Rehence to Sfldat Wh.-His decision and memage.-Hie convetratlon.-Hie fate.-Rem~~b thereon.- Hie successor in authority.--ShelmAn KhGrd.-Mhlla Qhori- Robbers-Reception at Iepind Sing-Arrival at Peah6wer.- Confused state of affairs.-Ridiculous altum+Shgh Siij& a1 M W s treaty.-The Sikhs profit by circumstances.-Their understanding with parties.-hoposal to the nirdah-Advance of Sfkh army.-Stand of HAji Khh.-Peahiwer taken.-Jocu- larity of H d Singh.-Pir Mghomed KhWs valorous remark- Abdd Ghik Khiin's amngements.

I HAVE noted, that on passing Biilla B@h work- men were employed in strengthening the defences of the place, under a notion that Dost Miihomed K h h contemplated to visit it in his way to Jel6-

204 MEHER DIL KHAN'S VISIT.

lab6d. I soon found that there waa good ground for the apprehension, and at once understood the nawgb's solicitude, that I should go to his castle and not wander from it. When I left Kkbal I waa not aware of the sirdss intention, in fact, s u p posed his attention would be directed to other quarters ; but I troubled myself little about poli- tics, and did not penetrate the secrets of his councils. I t waa known that Shah SGja a1 MGlkh was at' ShikiirpGr, that he had defeated the army of Northern Sind at Sakar, and extorted a sum of money from the confederated chiefs. All ac- counts concurred that he had collected an army, formidable as to numbers at least ; that there was abundance in his camp, and that the road to KAn- dah& was open to him. His letters were circu- lated through all parts of AfghhistAn, and there was scarcely a person of note who had not re- sponded to them. In September, Meher Dil KMn, one of the K b d a h h chiefs, arrived at Kilbal, avow- edly to induce his brother, Dost Miihomed KhAn, to march to Khdahiir, to aasist in repelling the danger with which they were menaced by the ShAh's ad- vance. Notwithstanding, the shah waa naturally an object of dread; so imperfect was the bond of union between the several B h k Zai brothers in power that the real purpose of Meher Dil KhWs visit was to entice his brother to KBndah&, with a view of rendering his territories accessible to inva- sion by the chiefs of Peshiiwer and Jeliilabiid.

PLOTS AND 206

Dost Mihomed K h h , well acquainted with the intentions of his brother, received him with out- ward civility, but neglected to provide him with entertainment, or with expenses to defray it, there- by annoying him during his stay, and probably abridging its continuance. He engaged, however, to march to KAndahib, if satisfied that no ad- vantage would be taken of his absence by the chiefs of Peahiwer. S u l h Mdhomed K h h ad- vanced as firr as M b 6 K h 8 south of Gandamak, and sent his son to Kiibal to aasist at the confer- ences, as a proof of his desire to unite cordially with Dost Miihomed K h h in the crisis which im- pended over the fsmily. Such was the proclaimed motive; but agents, in the train of his son, were commissioned to tamper with the adherents of the Kiibal chief, and, in concert with Meher Dil Khb, to arrange measures with the disaffkcted for his destruction. The Nawiib Jab& Khh , and HAji Khh , were privy to these plote, and lent them their countenance. S G l h MBhomed KhMs agents reported, that their mission had been succemful ; and Dost Miihomed K h h , who had alike despatched emissaries to Peshiiwer on a similar errand, was flat- tered by their assurances that the retainers of his brothers had been corrupted. SGlth Miihomed Khb, of course, exerted all his influence with Miihomed Z e m h K h h , who, however hostile to Dost M6homed K h h , and desirous to preserve his authority at Jellilabiid, was not anxious to provoke

206 EXTOBTIONS.

attack; and while consenting to call in the Pesh- 6wer chiefs, if Dost Mbhomed K h h became the aggressor, and to cede them BishbGldk as an equi- valent for their assistance, still would not per- sonally see S G l h Miihomed K h b ; and when this chief; about to return to Peshiiwer, called at his house in Jelflabiid, he was not admitted, and was compelled to leave without an interview. Miihomed Z e m h K h h had been summoned by Dost Miihomed K h b to meet and confer with Meher Dil Dhln at Kibal. His refusal previ- ously to -perate with the sirdair of K&bal in his expedition to Taghow, had been made the pretext for the invasion of his territory, as before narrated. On this occasion he declined to place himself in the power of his suspected kinsman, but avoided the charge of contumacy by sending his eon, an evasion little palatable to Dost MBhomed Khin. Before Meher Dil Khan departed from Kibal the sirdk had stationed his p6sh-khk at D6h Mazzang, and the Khdahair chief returned, most likely pluming himself on the result of his dexterity. To provide means for the expedition, a loan of thirty thousand rupees waa forced from the ShikiirpGrb; a few other individuals were seized, and sums of money extorted from them, until, at length, the persons of N&ir KhairGlah, and the M'u&hor Wali Miihomed were secured, the first under the protection of 'the Amin a1 Mfilkh, Miihomed =him Khh , and the latter

in the service of the Nawiib JabAr K h h . Thirty thousand rupees were demanded from the one, and ten thouaand rupees from the other. This step was highly offensive to the two noblemen named, and the nawib used strong language ; but all that he could effect was a commutation, by which a part of the amount waa given in money and the remainder in goods and chattels. The pksh-khh was still at DCh Mazzang, when, m November, a fall of snow happened, and the soldiery became somewhat discouraged a t the prospect of a march in winter, and through snow. Mikomed A k h K h h , the s i rdes son, had been aent to LGghmh, oate~wibly to collect money for the expedition; it wss alleged that the march waa delayed until his return. In this atage of the bnsinees the prin- cipal kowhha, at the suggestion of Amir MQ homed Khb, requested the sirdG to dehr hie march to KOndahtir, pointing out that, according to his repeated and constant assertions, the Shkh had no army, so there could be no immediate danger, while a march through the snow would disorganhe his own force. They propoaed to go to KhGram, where revenue for the last two years had not been collected. The sirdk affected to take the recommendation ill, .swore that he would march to Khdah&, and acquit himself of his duty to hia brothers, if up to hie neck in snow; that all who chose might follow him, and all who choee might remain ; that, for himself, he would go

208 DESIGN8 DISCLOSED.

if followed only by AbdGl Samad and his batta- lion.

The p & h - k h h was advanced to Killa Kt&& and AbdGl Samad, with his battalion, directed to join it. The 6rst fall of mow, after an interval of severely cold weather, had been followed by a eecond, and the prospects of the troops b e m e daily more dis- couraging. In this conjuncture the sirdk convened his kowhine, and prefacing that they might thank the Amin a1 MGlkh, and others, for their dilatoriness in complying with his demands, or he had certainly marched to K b d a h k in despite of snow, declared hie resolution to take their advice, and proceed to K h b . One of his dependents, Bahiwal K h k Bdrak Zai, was despatched to examine and report upon the state of the Kotal P6hwh. This man on his return affirmed that the kotal was impracticable, and that some of his men had lost their toee from the severity of the frost. The sirdk then ordered his p4t-h-khha to be brought from Killa Kdzi and to be fixed at Si6h Sang, east of KAbal, and on the road to Jeliilabbd. His real purpose, which he had hitherto eo industriously concealed, became appar- ent. It was greatly diswlished by many. The Nawiib Jab% K h h was very sore, and, ostensi- bly, the sirdWs brother, Amir Miihomed Khkn, disapproved of it. The nawtib, however, declined to remonstrate, observing, that if he said march, he made his nephews enemies; if he said, do not march, from previous transactions he should be

DISMISSAL 'OF HAJI KRAN. 209

suspected of intrigues with them ; adding, ' with simulated humility, that he waa a nGkar, or serv-ant. The arch dissembler, Amir MBhomed K h b , took a K o r h in his hand, and presented himself before his brother, praying him not to march on Jeliilabiid, reminding him of the mutual oaths they had both taken to Mdhomed Z e m h Khb, and offering, if money was the object, to contribute three liikhs of rupees. The sirdk replied, that if twelve l&hs of rupeea were proffered he would refuse them, and march. Dost Maomed K h h next called HAji K h b to an interview, a t which, besides himself and the k h h , Amir MBhomed K h h , and M'ia Sami KhAn were present. In 8 few words he informed the k h h , that his evil deeds and his intentions were known and forgiven, that his person and property were respected, and that he had liberty to transport himself and his dependants wherever he pleased. Amh Mdhomed K h h , before HAji Khdn recovered from his surprise at this abrupt announcement, had taken off his turban and placed it a t his feet, con- juring him not to reply. He then withdrew him from the meeting, protested that he considered him as a brother, and that if he disliked to remain in Dost Mtihomed's service he should share in his own fortune. Of course, this matter had been previously arranged between the two brothers. On the 21st of December the pbh-khha waa advanced to BhGt Khiik, where the battalion joined it, and.eoon after Dost Miihomed K h b left .the city. He

VOL. m. P

marched successively to KhGrd Khbal, TCzin, Jig- dillik, and Ishpih, in the Kohghi dietrict, a little west of Gandamak. Here he halted to allow the troops from Khbal to reach, which followed in detail, as was necessary on account of the inclement season and the scarcity of provender. The sirdk came with hie battalion, the G h G l h Kh%na troops, and fourteen guns. Amir Miihomed Khhn, the Nawlib JabAr Khh, and HQi K h h were yet in Kiibal, where one of the s i rdss sons, Miihomed Akram Khh, had been appointed governor. At h h p h , famous in Afghb history for one of Shah BGjah al MGlkh's discomfitures, the sirdir wae cloee upon MhmL Khtl, the place to which SGldn MB-

- homed K h h had advanced in the autumn. There reside M'r Afzil Khb, eldest son of Akram Khb, Popal Zai, the vaz'rr of Shih SGjah a1 MGlkh, slain

1 in the disaster at Nimla Mir Afzil K h h , bitterly inimical to Dost Mtihomed KhAn, was no doubt mixed up in the intrigue0 carrying on against him, but his cunning made him now, as at all other times, feign afflictions in his limbs. Aware that Dost Miihomed K h h was likely to pay him a visit, and to demand money-for he is reputed to be very rich-his ingenuity had provided against such a call, by an expedient worthy of the occasion. One night, while the eirdk was yet at Khbal, he employed men to rob his o m castle. Holes were perforated in the walls, and in the morning carpets, felts, and utensils of all kinds were found scattered alaauk,

His wife, a daughter of the Vazh Fati K h h , im- mediately started for Kibal, and related to her brother the sad misfortune, and loss of all her jewels and valuable property; reviled Miihomed ZemAn K h h for his lax exercise of authority, and prayed that the sird6.r would use his influence to recover her wealth. He had difficulty to appetlse his volu- ble relative, but he was too shrewd not to perceive the manceuvre put in play. He, however, forebore at this time to demand a contribution from mr Afkil K h b , aware that his wife would be forth- coming with the piteous tale of the robbery. The manner in which M h A f i l Kh&n acquired his use- ful lady may be told as characteristic of Fati K h h , and also to his honour. When Akram K h h was cut down at Nimla, he recommended his family to the protection of his antagonist, saying, they might one day serve him. Fati K h h subsequently in- quired for Mir Afiil Khhn, and gave him his daughter in marriage. By this alliance the son was able to preaerve much of his father's property, although many liikhs of rupees were bst, being confided to Hind64 who fled to Amratsir, where they are now capitalists. Mir Afiil Khhn lives secluded in a delightful locality at &;i Kh&l, where he has built castles and planted orchards and vineyards, but is supposed to be a reckless in- triguer. His reputation is very bad, and very dif- ferent from that of his hther. He has a brother connected with Pir MBhomed K h h of Peshiiwer,

P 2

21 2 OSMAN KHAN'S SUBMISSION.

alike distinguished for his intrigues, and qualities the opposite to amiable ones.

From IshpAn Dost M6homed Kh&n marched to Fa- tiabbd, between which and Bhlla BAgh a stony plain, traversed by the KArasG river (black river), inter- venes for about three miles. Here he asked AbdGl Samad, a t . what expense of life he would capture the latter town ; who replied, with the loss of ten men. The sirdk observed, you shall presently see that I can manage these a i m better than you can. I shall order the discharge of five guns, and Mii- homed Osmh K h b will come walking into camp like a dog with his tail between his legs. The guns were discharged; and their report dissipated, as the sirdk had predicted, his nephew's warlike notions. His mother appeared, a suppliant, announcing her eon's allegiance, praying the town might not be attacked, and expressing his readiness to supply the camp with provisions. The lady was accompanied by a host of persons, bearem of sugar-cane, and other dainties. It was stipulated, that on the ad- vance of the army to Chahbr Biigh of Jeliilabiid her son was to join the camp, and make his submission. It has previously been mentioned, that the sirdws son, Mhhomed A k b k KhPn, had been despatched to LGghmh. On the arrival of his father at Jigdillik he commenced offensive operations there, expelling the troops of Miihomed ZemPn K h h from the Tiijik villages included under the rule of the Jelii- lab6d government. About eight thousand kharwiirs

of grain fell into his hands. From Tirgari he march- ed to Chahk BAgh of Lbghmih, where he await- ed instructions. This expulsion of the Jeliilabid chiefs troops was effected without bloodshed ; but they had to submit to be plundered of their horses and arms.

The NawAb Mghomed Z e m h K h h 11ad been for some time busy in renewing the defences of Jeliila- b6d. The dilapidated walls, originally of some width, were repaired, and on an eminence, a little south of the town, called Koh Bachrr, he erected an intrenchment and placed a piece of ordnance in bat- tery. H e had summoned the 'Iljari, or militia of the country, and the saiyad petty chiefk of Khonar, with SBdat K h h , the Momand chief of L U p h He could scarcely, however, have expected to with- stand a siege, notwithstanding his preparations, but must have depended on the arrival of the Peshdwer army to his assistance, when, if no actual collision took place, the usual routine of intrigues and nego- tiations would have been carried on; and if Dost

/ Miihomed K h h had been foiled, he for the present would have preserved his authority. A confidential agent from the Peshiiwer sirdim, Nazir MorBd Alf, was with him, urging him by resistance, to give the army time to join him, as also striving to obtain the cession of BishbGliik, which the nawBb, formerly promising to yield, now scrupled to make over.

When Dost Mhhomed K h h reached Fatfabdd the malek, or principal of the place, who, with his

iljsl quota, was at Jelaabiid, informed the nawib, and asked whether he should fight or give barley and provender, as was required. The nawAb turned to his chiefs around him, and said, " You see how silly Doatak is, to come into my country; if I did not feed his horses, they would be hrnished." The rnalek repeated his inquiry as to how he was to act. !' Go," said the nawiib, " and provide barley and chaff, or his horses will die." The malek, with his men, re- turned to Fatiabiid, and made his submission to Dost Miihomed K h h . This sird6.r advanced to Chahk Biigh of Jeliilabkd, where he was joined by Mii- homed Osmln Khan, and his son, Miihomed Akb% K h h , from LGghmb. He halted there one day, and on the next moved upon Jelhbiid. On the same day he possessed himself of the eminence Koh Bacha, and the zihats close to the town walls on the western side. During the night a nagam, or mine, was carried under a bastion nearly opposite, and on the following morning, the first of the month l&hazh, a day worthy of being signalized, the train was fired, and the battalion of Abdal Samd marched over the breach into the town. Parties were immediately despatched to protect the m i - dences of the nawib, and of those it was intended

' to preserve from plunder, and the rest of the town was abandoned to the mercy of the soldiery. The two mirzas of Jeliilabid, I m b Verdi and A@ Jh , with SPdat K h b the Momand chief, were made pri- soners, but two persons whom Dost Miihomed K h h

PLUNDER OF TOWN. 216

was very desirous to secure, N k i r Mohd Ali and Fati MQhomed Khin, PopaI Zai, and father-in-law of the Nawib Jab& KhAn, found means to escape, and reached Peshiwer. As for the Nawtb M6- homed Zemh K h h , aa soon aa the- town was en- tered he seated himself, with the K o h in his hande, open at the part where Dost MBhomed K h h , two years before, had written the most horrible de- nunciations on himself if ever he deprived him (the nawtb) of JelQabLd. Special care was taken that no outrage was committed on the nawib or on his family, but their dependants were rifled and d+ nuded without scruple or remorse. The Nawib Jab& K h b reached Tdtang the day before the as- sault and capture of Jelilabiid, at which he was not willing to be present. In the evening of that day, walking along the skirts of the hills between the castle and BQla B k h , I met him with a small party. He produced, with much satidkction, a cop- per coin which he had picked up somewhere on the road, and which proved to be one of Agathocles. He had left KBbal in company with H&ji K h h , and together they reached BhGt Kh&. The nawib took the road of Sokhta Chanb, and the k h h that of Kh6rd KAbal, whence he marched upon Bangash, and was next heard of at Peshiiwer, where he was cordially received, appointed n&b, and assigned a jkh'ir of one hundred and twenty thousand rupees p r annum. He had arrived to take part in the machinations concocted by the chiefs there against

their brother, Dost Mhhomed Khan, whose celerity, however, had rendered them nugatory, and by the opportune acquisition of Jeliilabiid and the command of its resources, made him more formidable than ever. Amir Miihomed K h h arrived from KAbal a day or two after the capture of JelUabiid, and gravely expostulated with MAhomed Z e m h K h b on his rashness in firing upon Dost Maomed Khln, who, he pretended, had no idea of interfering with JelEilabLd ; but was merely passing by, intending to make a demonstration against Peshiiwer, and with no more serious purpose than to bring his un- toward brothers there to an understanding. The territory of Jelaabhd waa placed under the govern- ment of Amir BIiihomed Khiin, and ajiighir, to the value of one hundred and fifty thousand rupees per annum, waa made over to Mihomed Z e m h K h h , and the quota of troops he waa to entertain fixed at three hundred. The m'rzas of Jeliilabtkl were rein- stated in office, and Shdat K h h , after some days' imprisonment, was released, on condition that he should give a daughter to one of the h W s sons. Dost Miihomed KhLn encamped between the town and river, and shortly after seieed the saiyad chief of Peshat in Khonar, the11 in his camp, and de- spatched MGlla Momind Khan to occupy his little domain. Many rwsons were urged for the step ; suf- ficient ones were, that he was a sworn friend to HCtji KhQn, and that his country lay in the road to Bhjor.

ATTEMPT AT ASSASSINATION. 21 7

It may here be noted, that besides depending u p on the assistance of the Peshiiwer s i r d h , the Nawib Miihomed Z e m h K h h had been willing, by the assawination of Dost Miihomed K h b , to have ridden himself of apprehension from him, and commissioned a desperate man in his employ to commit the deed. - This man went to K Q h l where. his family resided, and one night, by means of a ladder, ascended into the apartment where Dost hfiihomed K h h was sleeping with one of his ladies. He relented of his fell purpose, as, he said himself afterwards, he thought it a pity to kill such a man, and canied off his shawl, trowsere, &c. as trophies of his visit, which he presellted to the nawtb, and claimed his reward. The ladder was left standing, and was of course discovered in the morning. Subse- quently the man came to Ktbal, resided openly in the BQla Hiss&, made no secret, or very little, of what he had done, and was unnoticed by Dost M& homed K h b . In course of time he was shot one evening as he came from a HindG's house, by some Rikas. His friends demanded the blood of the Rikas at the hands of Dost Mhhomed K h b , who manifestly favouring them, pretended there was not evidence enough against them.

Miihomed Z e m h Khan by the loss of Jeldlabiid was deprived of authority, which he may have prized, although not very able in its exercise, yet he did not otherwise suffer, as he preserved his wealth, supposed to be great. From that t,ime, while con-

218 z m KHAN'S OONDUCT.

utantly engaged with the Nawiib J a w K h b , and others, in the intrigues of the hour, he generally se- cluded himself, and by pretending sickness, or aBc- tiona of the limbs, excused hie attendance upon Dost Miihomed Khh, whom he constantly asserted i t would be meritorious to slay, although to kill Ranjit Singh, an infidel, would be a crime. H e seldom clalled Dost Miihomed K h h by any other name than Dostak, and was alike accustomed familiarly to address MBhomed h e m Khh, when living, as Azem.

In the recent events at KAbal he would seem to have taken a conspicuous part, or, perhaps, he has been made an instrument by others for the sake of his wealth. I have understood, that in common with the seniors of the Bihk Zai family, he did not use to wait upon the s h a , but sent his son ShGj6 Dowlah, a youth, by whom the unfortunate prince has been eventually slain.

Immediately after the arrival of the Nawflb J a b k K h h , and the capture of Jelaabiid, I directed my attention to the topes of DarGnta, and was engaged in their examination until the Nawilb Jab& Khan earnestly requested me to accompany his son, AbdGl G h i b K h h , who it appeared was destined to be mnt to India to receive an English education. I had much rather the request had not been made, yet knew not how to evade it, and consented to accompally the youth to Peshiiwer at all events, and to Lahore, if necessary. I was soon inhmed

ABDUL GHIAS K3AN. 219

that Dost Miihomed K h h by no means approved of the mission of AbdGl Ghib K h h , if on no other amount, that he beheld his brother, the nawiib, with jealousy, and disliked that he should form any con- nexion, however faint, with the British, or any other government. On the other hand, it need not be suppased that the nawiib had any but interested poli t id motivea in forwarding his son a t the pre- sent conjuncture, when the interests of the family were threatened by Sh& Sujah al MGlkh, who, i t was generally believed, was supported by the British government. In hie mod extravagant expecta- tions the nawgb had been encouraged by the British agent, Saiyad Karamat Ali, with whom the scheme of sending AbdGl Ghi& KMn originated. Through the medium of the saiyad also, he corresponded with the shah, being feerful in such a matter to confide to hie own m'uolaa. Dost M h m e d K h h would probably have detained the youth, nor have permitted him to proceed, but the .naw&b delayed his departure until the time arrived when Dost Mhomed KhAn was compelled, by the events transpiring at Khdahbi; to return towards KAbal, when AbdGl Ghih K h h was sent for from Titang, and secretly placed on a raft and floated down the river to Peshhwer, his horses and attendants being to follow him. I could not retract my promise, and in a few days started from TBtang, with a formidable cavalcade, the retinue of the young lad, for Pesh- bwer. The first march we made to Ali Biighh,

220 DISPUTE AT DAKA.

six cosses east of Jelblabbd, and the second took us to Bbsowal. ' On the third we reached D6ka at the eastern termination of the Jelaabid valley: Here, on the Momands claiming the customary passage-fees, the nawtlb's people talked largely, and refused to pay them. Some altercation followed, but at length it was conceded by the claimants, that as the nawib's people were MGssulmbs as well as belonging to the nawlib, the fees should be re- mitted, and that I should be considered in the light of a guest, and not asked to pay anything, but that two or three HindGs of the party must pay the usual sums, as they no farther belonged to us than as being in our company. The nawlib's people refused to allow the HindGs to be taxed, and on my professing willingness to pay for the men and for myself, horses and servants, according to custom, I was entreated not to mention such a thing, as i t would be derogatory to the nawAb. The Momands then offered to commute the matter by acceptance of a sheep ; but this in like manner was refused ; when they waxed sore, and insisted on the payment of full fees. Many of them congregrated, and but for the n k i r of SIdat K h b , who happened to be with them, we should all have been plundered, if not worse treated during the night. In the morn- ing fresh debates ensued, and it was finally sebtled to refer the buainess to Mdat K h b himself, who we found wsa at ShelmAn, a spot in the' hills. My m'uza was sent a8 agent to our party, being per-

INTERVIEW WITH SADAT KHAN. 221

eonally known to the k h h . On hie return he re- ported, that Sfidat KhAn, after cursing Dost MQ- homed K h h and the nawAb, affirmed that he could not interfere with the claims of his GIGS, or tribe, but that he remitted his own share in the fees, or one-third. The nawtb's people, I thought, were, very rightly served ; but now there was another evil, for it proved they had no money to pay the fees, and after all they were compelled to draw on my funds. Stdat K h h had sent a very civil message to me, and requested me to wear county clothes, as my m'uza had told him I was clad in European costume. The next morning we marched for Shel- mh, and, after pmsing D&a Khbrd, commenced the ascent of a high and difficult pass. W e had nearly reached the summit when a host of fire-lock men m e with rapidity down the steep sides of the hill. It was S4dat K h h and his followers. I had a few minutes' conversation with the khan, and while complaining of the losses Dost Miihomed K h h had inflicted upon him on the captnre of Jelhlabiid, he consoled himself with the notion that if defeated by Shfih Siijah a1 MGlkh, his r6.h fir&, or the road by which he would fly, might bring him to the Momand hills, when he would retaliate upon him and remunerate himself. Skdat K h h was a man of very good address, and is a very respectable chief, contriving to keep a turbulent tribe in ex- cellent order. SiZdat Khan is now a fugitive, and rebel. I know not the causes leading to a result,

222 ABILITY AND FATE OF SADAT KHAN.

which I may, however, regret, because I feel assured that nothing but ignorance and unfair t ratment could have made him so. When I left Peshgwer, in 1838, he was aware of the intended restoration of ShAh Sfijah a1 MGlkh, expressed his srttisfaction, and declared his readiness to aid in the views of the Indian government, and that he did not want money. K h b Bahkdar Kh%n of Khaibar, and other chiefi of the neighbourhood, said the same thing, We want ~ro nroney. It would not surprise me if more had been required of Skda:t KhAn than ought to have been, and that he has been punished to conceal the weakness and ill-judgment of others. I have h d as much from a SadG Zai prince engaged in the transactions of. that period If unfortunate for Skdat K h h , it is no leas so for his tribe, and for those who pass through their country, for never was tribe or county kept in better order than by him. TGrsbb K h b , the nominee of the British, is a good man, and services he may have rendered deserve requital, but his supportera cannot give him ability or conduct, and both are required in the chief of a powerful GIGS, and were posseseed by SMat Khlu.

The ascent of the kohl achieved, we came upon the table land of Shelmh K e l h , which we traversed throughout its extent ; nor was it until evening that we reached Shelmb KhGd, seated upon a fine rivulet, the banks fringed with oleanders, at the western base of the great Kohl of Tiitma. The

inhabitanbs here were not d,isposed to be very chi&, and in the night rain descended, not in showers but in floods. Ih the morning we commenced the sscent of the pas6 exceedingly long and difficult to the cattle, from the smooth surface of the rock, over which, in many parts, the road leads. From the summit of Thtara the view is very extensive, but the hazy state of the atmosphere over the Pesh- iiwer plain prevented it from being observed with advantage. The r o d now winds v u n d the brinks of fearful precipices, and i t was only a little before arriving at the village of MGlla Ghori, still among the hills, that it improved. Hence the road, had we followed it, was good; but the nawkb's people, to avoid a village where the inhabitants have a bad character, deviated from it, with the intention of making Ispind Sang, a village on the plain of Pesh- Bwer. We were speedily bewildered amid ravines, the passages blocked up with boulders, and, to com- plete our conhsion, a party of ruffians, with long knives in their hands, rushed down upon us. Had we been together we should have been too form- idable in number for these men to have approached us, but we were scattered, and they aeailed us who were in advance. Not one of them touched me, all passing ; I presume because, a1 though nnarmed, I wes so well dressed that they suspected I was some more importank personage than I m. They cried one to the other, looking at me, " IXr sirdh ddl, p&j di ;" that is. a sirdk do not touch him. Much

224 ARRIVAL AT PESHAWER.

mischief had not been done when they observed our companions in the rear pressing forward, and aparley took place, which closed by a few rupees being given to them, when they made OK After this rencontre we cleared the hills, and descending into the plain, reached Ispind Sang. Here we occupied the hGjri; and the nawhb's people sent for supplies to the malek of the village, who re- plied, that had they come to him he would have re- ceived them as guests, but as they had taken up quarters at the hGjri they must find themselves. W e had more rain at this place, and I was glad when the morning broke forth, that I c ~ u l d push on to PeshLwer. I found AbdGl Ghib K h h lodged with his uncle, the Sird6.r SGl th MBhomed Khhn, but that affairs had =rived at a sad state. The %kh army under Had Singh was encamped at Chamkani, three cosses from the city, and it was feared that he intended to occupy i t under plea of a treaty, arranged between Ranjit Singh and Shah SGjah a1 MGlkh, consequent to the departure of the latter from LGdiha. Some affected to believe that the treaty had been concocted by the consent, and under the sanction, of the British political agent at LGdiLna. Hari Singh, avowedly, only demanded the annual tribute in horses, rice, swords, &c., which by their engagements the s i r d h were bound to give, but he was not eaaily satisfied, and by rejecting horses &c., as not suitable, he gained time, which was clearly liis object. The s i r d k aware of the actual

RIDICULOUS ALARMS. 226

aspect of affairs, had sent their families to Minchimi, on the northern side of the KAbal river, with their guns and other property. They remained in Pesh- Lwer, with their horses ready to be addled at a moment's notice, and i t was somewhat ridiculoas about twice or thrice every day, to see the servants running out with the saddles on their heads, and returning when they discovered that the alarm which had been given was a false one. All the doors and windows of their houses, indeed every-' thing of wood which was portable, had been carried away; and I understood such had always been the ease whenever the Sikhs had encamped near Pesh- Lwer. By the treaty before alluded to PeshLwer had been ceded to Ranjit Singh, and no doubt Hari Singh was commissioned to look after its execution.

Everything at this particular crisis conspired ta favour the designs of the Sikhs; and the plots de- vised by the chiefs of PeshLwer to effect the ruin of Dost ll6homed Khdn immediately involved their own; and their fate affords an example of evil falling upon those who imagine it. The promptitude of their KAbal brother in the capture of Jeliilabid, had broken up the confederacy against him, and they now, in turn, began to be apprehen- sive lest be should attack them ; and in truth they were a t his mercy ; but while he could easily have expelled tbem, and have overrun their county, he might not have been competent to'have retained i t

VOL. III. Q

226 PESHAWER INTRIGUES.

at this time.' Their fears, however, induced them to apply to the Sikhs for assistance, who readily pro- mised it on certain considerations, and Hari Singh gladly crossed the Atak river, which, if they had not played into his game, he might not have done, but would have been content to have watched the course of events in the country east of it. The arrival of HAji Khh, also in conformity to their plans for the ddruction of Dost Miihomed K h h , in which he was intended to have been a main instrument, proved se- riously detrimental to the sirdim. Disappointed in his projects as to Dost Miihomed K h b , but anxious to evince his capability in his character of n&b, he proposed a variety of innovation8 : amongst them, to reform the army, and to dismiss all the shim, or infidels. These men, the remnants of the old GhG- 16m Khana of Peshiiwer, were yet powerful, if not a very numerous body, and growing incensed at the propositions of Hiji K h b , and fearing the effect8 of his ascendancy, at once opened a communication with the Sikhs, as did many others, not shias, but who could not feel confidence in Hkjf Khan. The principal Hindfi d iwbs of the country were also in correepondence with Hari Singh; and had he not been furnished with positive orders or discretionary powers, the opportunity wm so tempting that he would scarcely have been warranted, in Sikh po- licy, to have foregone it. After he had procured from the sirdim beyond the ordinary complement of tribute, he sent a message to them, that the

ADVANCE OF SIKH ARMY. 227

Shhhzada Noh N'ihLl Singh, the grandson of Ranjit, Singh, who was with the m y , desired to eee the city, and it would be well that tbey should eva- cuate it, and retire to B&gh Ali Mirdb K h b , when the sh&dda would ride round it, and then the army would retire towards the Atak. The morn- ing came, when Sbltih Miihomed Khh, who had always his spy-glass in hand, descried the Sikh force in motion. All became panic-atruck, and horses were saddled and mounted in a trice. The house was emptied as if by magi4 and none re- mained in it but AbdGl GhiL Khb, his party, and myself. W e ascended the roof, and beheld the Sikhs moving forward in very respectable style. In the van was the young shah&& on an ele- phant, with Hari Singh and a variety of %kh chiefs, attended by a host of cavalry. Behind them followed the battalions of M. Court, advancing in columns at a brisk pace. On reaching the gardens attached to the house we were in the first shots were fired, mme Afghhs being concealed among the trees. They were soon cleared out, and the march of the force was not affected by the desul- tory opposition. Subsequently we heard some smart firing, and learned during the day that the Sikhs, pressing too close upon HAji KhAn, who covered the retreat of SGltAn Miihomed Khan, the k h h loet patience and turned upon them. He handled them severely, and, as admitted by themselves, checked their advance until the bat-

Q 2

d i o n s came up. K h b Mtihomed Kh811, the b'ro-

ther of Haji K h b , was badly wounded in this skirmish, but was borne off the field. Some v e y splendid instances of individual bravery were ex- hibited by the Afghhe, and one gallant fellow cut down six of his opponents. The S'khs, hav- ing completed the circuit of the city, encamped under the BQla Hiss& to the east : the discom- fited s i r d h retired to T6kkA1, and then to ShCk- h b , at the skirts of the hills. My mina in the course of the day went to the Sikh camp, where he saw Hari Singh, who asked where I had been during the tambha, or sport. He replied, that I had witnessed it from the roof. He then asked, jocularly, whete the s i r d h had gone. The mina said to T&k&l, to prepare for battle. The sirdh . laughed and said, No, no ; nasghGr, nasghGr; they have run away, they have run away; some to Kohiit, some to Khaibar. I certainly was amused at the almost ridiculous manner in which the Sikhs had made themselves masters of an important and productive country, and SGlth M6- homed K h h was as much to be laughed at as to be pitied, for in place of adopting any means of de- fence he had sent away the better part of his troops, and prohibited the citizens and people of the country from defending the city, as they wished. Nr Mihomed K h b waa accustomed to say, that he had three 1 a h s of rupees, and did not care who knew it ; that he had reserved them for such a mi-

eis as this ;' that he would assemble the G h b k and do many wonderful things. HAji Khtln would, when such valorous speeches were made, embrace the sirdir, saying he must kim the lips from which such words flowed. Fi Miihomed K h h , however, thought it better to keep his three l&hs of rupees, and hastened to Kohtit to collect what he could from the inhabitants, previously to his departure ul- timately fiom the country. Tbe force wit4 Hari Singh did not exceed nine thousand men ; and had a show of serious resistance been made he would a t least have been obliged to temporize; also, had the city, although an open one, been put in a condition for defence, and the system of kGcha bandi adopted, he wm scarcely competent to have forced it. As it was, with a small force he pos- . mmed himself of a county which, some years be- fore, Ranjit Singh in person, with twenty-five thou- sand men, did not venture to retain. True it is, that since that period the spirit of the MBhome- dans had become dejected by repeated defeats, and that there was, as there universally is, treachery in the DGrin< camps and councils. AbdGl Ghih Khan had visited the S h W d a Noh Nihal Singh, and the arrangements for his departure for LGdiha had been fixed; I therefore did not see the occa- sion for my accompanying him, as his forward jour- ney would be safe and easy. His uncles of Pesh& wer were very averse to his intended sojourn in India, and might possibly have taken upon them-

aao ABDUL OHIAS KHAN.

selves to have detained him, considering its ob- ject a political one. They reasoned, that the nawiib, his father, and not themselves, would benefit by it. They had, however, given me their hands, and pledged themselves to permit him to proceed, amd their abrupt departure, at any rate, deprived them of an opportunity of violating their promises, while AbdGl Ghi& K h h became free to follow up his father's instructions.

CHAPTER X.

Departure from Peeh6wer.-March to Shkkhh-Ex-sirdh- Their conversation.-Fat$ Maomed KhiZn's civility.-Encamp merit.-Bh river.-Popular credulity.-Departure for Min- chfnl. - Alarm on d.- Old monument.-Bsmagak-Min- &id.--Ghilji. - Haidar K h h . -J6lawb. -Fed3 state of the river.-Consultation.-Passage of the river.-~mathlah'r dexterity. - Shelmh. - GhiljSe piety. -Plain of She1mBn.- Kotel -BahAdar'e request.-Dbka KhhL -Good fort- Congratulatiom-D6ka KelBn. -LfdpGra --Curioue converea- tion.- Suspicions.-Precautions.-KhGrd Khaibar.-Momand'e tale. - Momand's intention. - H b h o h . - k p p e a r a n c e of Ohilji.-Wiord's Nyea and Mount MerG.-Biiesowa1.-Ghilji and his gang. - Neoessity for action. - KohistWs. - Night marchcB4ti Kot.-Shrkh Dlw&r.- C h w t a i castla- Good- will of Kohhthi&-Wuza Agil Jan.-Hie surmises.-My own conjecture&-Ghiljl'e evil repute.-Subsequent attempts.-Re- newal of researches.

TAKING farewell of the nawlb's eon, we started for the fugitive sirdk's camp at ShGkhAn, distant about ten miles from Peshiwer. The march was rather a hazardous one, as our Sikh soldiers did not dare to p a s the limits of the city gardens, and the natives of the villages on our route were. under arms. We, however, managed to pass safely through them, being considered devout Mtihomedans

retiring from the city profaned by the presence of infidels; and ultimately crossing the B h river, we found, under the shade of its high bank, lying covered with lbnghis, the Sirdh SGP& Mbhomed K h h , with his brother, Saiyad Miihomed Khhy HAji K h h , and HiXiji, the son of the late Mir Wais. They were not, probably, in their own esti- mation so conveniently accommodated as in their commodious dwellings at Peshiimer, but I could not forbear thinking that to such men a little adversity is useful. When they arose, S G l h M C homed Kh&n alluded to no other topic than the pefidy of the Sikhs, apparently losing sight of his own misfortunes, or consoling himself by reviling the authors of them. H&ji K h h , consistently enough, proposed a variety of stratagems by which the city might be recovered, and offered to execute many venturous deeds, aware that he should not be franctioned. The sirdk replied to all his proposals, by expressions of horror and surprise at the unpa- ralleled disregard of oaths evinced by Hari Singh. Poor Saiyad Miihomed Kh&n said not a word, and appeared carelees of what had happened ; Hiifizji and others, who had now arrived, seemed, by their signi- ficant looks at each other, to intimate the predi- cament into which they had been brought, and t.heir wonderment as to what waa to follow^ After sitting some time in company with the sird6r and his circle, I repaired to the tent of one N&ir AbdGl =him,

where I was provided with quarters. Close to us

was the tent of Fati MLhomed K h h , Popal Zai, with whom were accommodated M6homed O s m b Khbn, son of Wafadk K h h , the Sad6 Zai vaz'ir, and HiFiji, the son of mr Wais. Fati Mihomed Khh, as soon as he perceived me, sent over a dish of sweetmeats and tea, and this civility he continued while I remained in camp. This was located on the BBra, at the spot where its course is intercepted by btmh, or artificial ramparts, by which its waters are diverted into canals for the irrigation of the circumjacent plain. The water is proverbially ex- cellent as an aliment, and as conducive to the ferti- lity of the soil. I t is believed that to its peculiar virtues a celebrated variety of rice, called in con- sequence the B h rice, owes its length of grain and delicate flavour. The river has its source in the hills of !13rah, and from the benefits it confers -

upon the country has been from time immemorial an object of veneration ; and ShGkhln, or the spot where the division of its waters is effected, is held particularly sacred. The Mtihomedans of the coun- try have a belief, that if a Hind6 should bathe in the stream at this pazticular place its waters dimi- nish. They have therefore erected a tower on its right bank, where is constantly stationed a guard of Momands, who, besides watching over the ban&, are enjoined to guard against the pollution of the river. Should so calamitous an event accidentally occur it is judged necessary to sacrifice a cow, when the waters, it is said, gradually increase until

234 ALARM ON ROAD.

they regain their usual volumk. There is a .grove of trees and eihrat here, where is a stone which, according to popular credence, if struck by a musket- ball discharges blood. As the Miihomedans will on no account fire at it themselves, and would hold it very profane in others to do sd, the stone is likely to preserve ita character, and their faith in its pro- perty to remain entire.

SG1tA.n Miihomed K h h made it a point of honour to consider me his guest, and I was sumptuously entertained, eating my suppers by the glare of nu- merous torch-lights ; but I felt ashamed to be feed- ing luxuriously in a camp where the soldiers were subsisting on parched grain ; I therefore requested, after a stay of three days, to be provided with a companion for Minchini, and the sirdG commia- sioned his Sh6hinchi Bhhi, who had business there, to attend me. We started before daybreak, and by the time it was broad daylight found ourselves on the plain, with the Khaibari village of JamrGd en our left hand, and to our right the village of Tgkkiil, distinguished by its topes and sepulchral mounds. Here our ears were asaailed by the din of the nag* which made us both accelerate our pace and close upon the hills. On gaining a village, called S g h i Bidla, the inhabitants were busy in removing their effects, the report having spread that the infidels were approaching. We again made for the skirts of the hills, and traced

OLD M O N U ~ ~ ~ E ~ T . B 6

them until we reached the large, but now deserted village of Iapind D'i.

In our course to Minch'mi we passed a monument of the olden time, a square dructure, and formed rather rudely of stones. The length of each face may have been abbut twelve feet, and the height a little more, or about fifteen feet. Surrounding it were abundant vestiges of walls and minor mounds. With a castle, called Killa ArbPb, on our right hand, we reached the river, and crosaed on a jAla, or float of inflated skins. The Sh6hinchi Bfishi conducted me to the tent of N a b M G h AbdGl Kerim, who it appeared had charge of the sird6r'e property, &c, at Minchhi, and he imme- diately eent for the malek of the village, who was directed to provide me with trustworthy bad- ragas, or aafe-conductors, to D&a, from whom a written acknowledgment of my amval there in security would be demanded. The malek soon brought &om his village two men, RBhmat Ulah and Bahildar, both of LUpGra, and ip the service of SMat K h h , the Momand chief. The n6ib ar- ranged the amount of fees to be paid, which came to eight and a half rupees, six for my three horses, one and a half for my three men on foot, and one rupee for the ferryman'e hire at Abkhha, it having been arranged that we should pass by that route. There were many people sitting with Nhib AbdGl Ker'h ; amongst them, on his right hand, was one Saeh Mbhomed, a Ghilji.

236 . THE QHILJI.

Minch'd is a straggling village of about two hundred houses and huts, on the river side, and a t the foot of low rocky hills. It has some eight or ten Hind6 d o k k or shops, and as many dispersed square defensive towers on slight eminences. It belongs to Siidat KhPn, and is' of consequence as being the ferry by which goods and passengers are crossed, int,ending to traverse the AbkhAna route, also from its site being at the point where the great river of Kibal issues upon the plain of PeshBwer.

While at Minchini the Ghilji whom I had seen in N S b AbdGl Ker'm's tent came to me, and re- resented that he was of a respectable frrmily at Maidh, west of KBbal, and the chief of a thousand families ; when the Nawib J a b k Khan was hhkam he had differences with him, which mused him. to abandon his native seats; that he then retired to Khdahiir, and subsequently to Peshiiwer; that he was weary of wandering, and de~ired to return tb his connexions at Maidin. He prayed me, on reaching Kabal, to employ my good ofl6ces to re- concile him with the n a d b . I replied, that I would speak to the nawAb, but of course could promise pothing farther. On mounting to commence our journey I found that Saeh MBhomed intended to accompany us, and I had seen him, in course of the day, sitting in a neighbouring maajit, in close com- munion with my Momand badragas.

We had proceeded some two or three hundred yards along the river-bank when we were stopped

by sbme men, who affected to believe that we were passing clandestinely, and one of my Momande r& turned to the village, and brought the malek, who satisfied his people. About a mile further we time to a small village of about one hundred houses, the original Minch i i which is very picturesquely seat

ed. Hence we crossed the hills, none of them verp high, for about four comes, and arrived a t the village of Haidar K h b , of about one hundred and fifty houses, placed on an extensive plateau, or table- land, and well supplied with'water in a rivulet. This we crossed and fixed ourselves for the night at a detached portion of the village, inhabited chiefly by jiilawh, people with whom we had a little to say, as they have in charge the ferry of Abkhha. W e were here provided with every- thing we needed, as chahibpAhis, mats, &c.; our pro- visions were cheerfully cooked for us, and our treat- ment was in every respect civil. Our badragaa ne- gotiated for our passage across the river on the mop row ; and the jillawhs, alleging that at this season of the year no one thought of taking this road, and that their maseaks, or skins, were dry, engaged to moisten them, and do their beet to put us over in safety. They proposed that we should employ a certain number of swimmers in addition to the men seated on and directing the jaas, or floats; to which we readily consented ; and to remunerate them gave a sheep-as offering to the pir, or mint, at Rknar, a v t near LAlpGa, who is supposed to interest him-

238 BOIBTEROUS STATE. OF RIVER.

self in the fate of those who travel on jUas, provided' by meet oblations they prove themselves worthy of his protection. In the morning of the next day we made a smart ascent from Haidar Khb, and a de- scent, equally long and difficult, brought us to the river. I was astoniehed at its boisterous state, and the frightful scene presented by the rocks, whirlpools, and surges, with the rapidity of the current. My Mo- mand conductors had misgivings, and regretted that they had not taken the Tiitam route. Even the jU- awbs, while affirming that they would do their best, said they could not engage for safety. I waa perfectly confused, for I never expected that such obstacles were in our way, and, incompetent to judge of the degree of safety or danger, I very closely questioned the jaawAns, who now held the threads of our destinies in their hands, and I thought from .the statements of these honest fellows that they hoped to get over, and I felt inclined to trust myself and fortunes to their care. At the same time, I thought it becoming to consult my attendants, and pointing out to them that the river was more form- idable than I had anticipated, while they had heard all that the jUaw$ns had said, I offered, if they had doubts as to the passage, to return, as no evil had been yet done, and we were still on the safe side. They, like myself, were willing to trust to chance, and the j a a w h prepared their float.

While the machine was being adjusted SUeh Miihomed, who kept himself very much apart, twice

PASSAGE OF TEE RIVER. 239

or thrice called BahAdar aside, who as often said to me on his return, looking ecornfully towards the Ghilji, " D b khGsh sar6 di;" That is a worthless fellow. The float was formed of eight skins; and when ready our baggage was placed thereon, above which were seated three of my servants. Four men with paddles were alike perched on it, and half a dozen swimmers accompanied. It narrowly escaped being upset on starting, and with the celerity of an arrow was borne across the river. By the great efforts of the paddlers and swimmers it was impelled upon the opposite bank, just before a spot which appeared most dangerous to me, from the tremen- dous whirlpools at it. Yet through these very whirlpools the emptied jAla was brought back, so fearless and accwtomed thereto are the jAlawAns of AbkhAna

My mirza, the Ghilji, and 'myself, now took our seats, and as the float was not overloaded with bag- gage, we were passed with comparative facility, and . made a point higher up than the float had before gained. I observed my people on the opposite banks raise their hands in supplication, but there was no time for reflection, as the passage was the work of an instant. Before I was landed the men asked me for i n h , or reward, which, as their expec- tationa did not exceed one rupee, I readily promised, seeing that unasked I should have given them more, The swimmers next pawd my horses, and completed the transport of the party and all belonging to it.

RAhmatiilah, one of the Momands, would fain show his dexterity, and cross with his own msssak. Twice he was carried away by the stream, once caught in the whirlpools, from which he contrived to reach the same bank he started from, and the second time again engulphed by the same obstacles; on extri- cating himself he waa fairly borne down the river. The circumstance afforded merriment to the jP1- aw& who laughed at the notion of a man of U1- pGra attempting to imitate the swimmen of Ab- khhna.

From the river-bank we made a long, and some& times precipitous ascent, until we reached the sum- mit of the range, from which we descried Shelmh Kelh , the village at which we purposed to halt for the night. Our road hence waa good, leading over a broken surface, until we reached the table- land -of ShelmAn. At its commencement was a chokt, or guard-station, where a trifling fee is ex-

* acted from we passed on, leaving our badragas to settle it. On reaching a small castle, with a few houses without the walls, we stopped until they rejoined us. Here it was decided to remain, and chahbrptlhb, mats, &c., were furnished to the party, with necessaries, but at high prices. Our Ghilji friend seated himself in the masjit, de- fined simply by a circle of stones, and, with his rosary in his hand, chanted many hymns. I did not at a11 like this man ; keeping close to us, he was very reserved, and seemed to avoid all inter-

DAKA KHURD. ' 241

.course. The elevated valley of Shelmb niay- be from five to six miles in length from east to west, with a breadth of about a mile and half. On the north it descends abruptly upon the river of Khbal, and on the south a ridge of hills separates it from the ShinwWi districts. Much of its surface is cultivated, and wheat is the grain chiefly grown. Over it are dispersed some ten or twelve small hamlets, which consist of square towers, with a few houses around them. The plain is inhabited by the Sh% MansGr Khel, a tribe of Momands. My badragaa here enjoined egpecial vigilance during the night, urging the proximity of the Shinwh5 hills. In the morning we proceeded up the plain, and at its extremity came to a tower and choki at the ridge of the pass, which abruptly commences. In a recese of the hills to our left at this point waa a dand, or pool of water. From the choki a comprehensive view is obtained of the valley of Jeliilabid. W e thought it better to dismount, as the road is very precipitous for some distance, wben it improves, until a minor, but difficult, ascent is made, from which we descend upon Dika KhGrd, or Little DAka, a small village on the river. Here Bahbdar and S a e h Maomed, who were in advance, eeated themselves and waited my arrival; and as the Momand did not speak Persian fluently, the Ghiljf, acting as his interpreter, intimated to me the necessity of giving hhm, or reward, at &he village we were about to gain. I turned to

VOL. 111. R

242 FORTUNATE TEMERITY.

Bahkdar, and objected to be questioned amongst hills, upon a point on which I had perfect free will, and told him that DLka Kelfln, or Great DBka, was the place where such a demand would .be considered. He instantly rose, and feeling the reproof, moved on, while I saw that the Ghilji was chagrined the poiut had not been pressed.

D6ka KhGrd contains about eighty houses, and is pleasantly enough situated. W e hdted awhile, and enjoyed cool draughts of buttermilk, bowls of which were brought to us. Continuing our journey, the road skirting the rocks on the brink of the river, we at length found our progress impeded by the river, which had overflown and inundated the path. There was still a track practicable to men on foot over the rocks above us, but it was necessary, un- less we returned and followed some other road, to carry our luggage on men's backs, and to swim our horses against the current for a considerable distance. As our experience and good-fortune at Abkhha had made us bold in aquatic aGrs , all this was done, and our horses were brought round in safety to the village called D6ka Kelbn. The inhabitants congratulated us on our arrival, and averred that there must be some hol'ur, or sacred personage, of our party, for they had never known the AbkhAna passage to be attempted at this ses- son, though their beards had grown white, and they had never dreamed that horses could have been swam against the current, as they had now wit-

DAKA KELAN. 245

n&d. They informed ns that we ought to have taken a road which led by a z i h t . We were, indeed, aware of another road, which, besides being rather circuitom, winds under the kotal of Lo- hQi, and comes out at the extremity of the Dara Hgft Chah, or valley of seven wells, of Khaibar. From Shelmh to D&a K e l h the distance may have been about seven or eight miles. We made for a grove of mulberry-trw near the river, which waa very full, with several islands in it. Then+ are too or three small hamlets at D h Kelh, at the principal of which Siidat K h h , to whom it beldnp, has built a semi for the accommo- dation of kiifilas. There are several HindG traders located, as the place is a constant stage to kiifilaa and passengers travelling between Peshiiwer and Jel&Iab&d, from ita site, at the entrance to the hills; and it also stands at the head of the roads both of Khaibar. and Abkhha. On the oppoeite bank of the river is LapGra, a town of about eight hundred houses, the little capital of the Momands, and where resides their chief, Siidat K h b . Ferry-boats ply between the two placea.

While we were resting under the shade of the mulberry-trees four men, Afghih, came, and seat- ing themselves, set to work in making chapplis, or rude sandals, as is the custom of the moun- taineers in these regions, of the beaten stems of a plant, the fish, a species of aloe. Very close

R 2 I

244 SALEH MAHOMED.

to me, I wuld but hear every word they said; and presuming, I conclude, that I could not wm- prehend Pashto, they talked very loudly and freely. I was not much gratified to discover that plunder was the object they had in view, and that their sandals were being made to enable. them to follow me up. It was also edifying to hear the rogues chuckle over their contemplated booty, and to witness how they laughed, and fancied themselves in possession of the ducats which, they said, I had round my waist. One thing was fortunate, that I overheard them, and became aware of the danger to which I was exposed. I neither did nor said anything by which the fellows could imagine I was cognizant of their intentions, but allowed them to complete their sandals and depart in peace. I then inquired where Siileh Miihomed was, and was told he had not been seen since leaving Dbka KhGrd. I suspected this man in- tended to play me a trick ; and in the neigh- bourhood of the ShhwBris, he could, unluckily for me, experience no difficulty in finding fit as- sooiates.

In the morning, on amval here, I had heard that a strong party of KohistMs had reached from Peshiiwer by the Tbtara route, on their way to KAbal. In the service of SGltAn Miihomed KhQn, they were returning to their homes, on the breaking up of-his authority. I sent to the 61- lage to ascertain if these men were still there.

DISMISS THE MOUNDS. 246

They hiul left i't on their journey. I then or- dered our cattle to be laden, and horses saddled. 1. called the Momands, and, making them a pre- sent which quite pleased them, expressed my wish that they should accompany us as fai as Hazk Noh, midway between DQka and Bbsowal, at which place I purposed to pase the night. To this they cheerfully aesented. Between DQka and Haz% Noh the road is desolate, and there is ample room for accident ; but I felt pretty cer- tain that no one would venture to interfere with ns so long as we had the Momands with us, for it is not the object of robbers to be recog- nised. About a mile beyond Diika we passed KhGrd Khaibar, as it is called, where were a few kishdis, or Mack tents, and numerous ancient mounds and caves.

The road, heretofore along the river bank, now leads amongst low hills for some distance, until we enter the little plain of Ghirdi, a village of that name lying to our right on the river. From Ghird& rounding a low ridge of hill, we entered another plain, in which were two or three isolated eminences, encircled from base to summit with lines of walls and parapets. A few gaz-trees also occurred, and we did not question but that they marked sepulchral localities of the middle ages.

On reaching the cultivation dependent on Ha- z k Noh (the thousand canals), I told my Momand friends that they might return ; ,and they hsd

taken leave, when my mirzs asked Bahidar to repeat in my hearing what he had before told him concerning Saeh Mihorned. The tale of the Momand ran, that the Ghilji had proposed to him at Minchini before we started, and which explained the confabulations in the masjit there, to despoil ns on the road and to divide the booty. A t Haidar K h h he again urged the matter, saying that the kh-kGn'h, which I carried on the pummel of my saddle, was full of bhbtkis, or ducats, and that the larger kGrz'm, or saddle-bags, of my miha waa full of Kiishm'rr shawls. He proposed to take the ducats, and the shawls were to fall to the share of Bahidar. H e next wished that I should have been put out of the way in crossing on the float a t Abkhba ; and I called to mind Bahkdar's re- marks to me there, that he was a " khbsh sari&" or worthless fellow. A t Shelmh he was again willing to have instigated the Momands to commit, or connive at, robbery ; and I understood the pre- cautions they at that place took to prevent it, and the recommendation they urged on my people to be vigilant during the night. The last effort he made with Bahildar induced my stoppage on the kotal leading upon D6ka KhGrd ; this having failed, be said that I should not escape him if he followed me to SGrkh Diwkr. It seems that the Momands here, who had all along been communicating to the mina what passed, but who, in his wisdom, did not inform me, observed, that aa the Ghilji

UNPLUSANT POSITION. 247

waa not " dast ward&: or inclined to desist, and aa he had it in his power to cause me evil, they would cut his throat and throw him into the river, on the road to D6ka K e l h . Whether they would have done so or not I cannot tell, but there is just a chance that they would, and Bahkdar assured me that he fully intended it. The Ghilji, however, wisely gave them the slip, and was not seen after leaving D&a KhGrd. He, of course, was off, to beat up for more compliant associates.

I was angry with the m'ma for having concealed his information from me, as, while suspecting the Ghilji from the first, had I positively known hie designs tended to mischief, I would not have scru- pled to have bound him hand and foot when in my power. As i t was, he was at large, and in a neigh- bourhood where he could collect as many villains ae he chose, while we, six or seven of us, were, ridi-. culously enough, unarmed, and floating about, as i t were, a t his mercy. However, i t b e m e necessary to do the best we could under circumstances, and I trusted a t Bhowal to be able to adopt some pre- cautionary measures, as the place was this year held by SaifGlah Khtln, B h k Zai, who was my fiend, and I hoped to find some of his people there, or that the malek might be disposed to give us aid. We, therefore, dismiseing our Momands, passed on to Hae&rn6h, a large straggling village, seated on gentle eminences, bounding to the south an ex- tensive plain stretching to the river. In front, or

west, the hill- Miir Koh, under which BLsowal is situated, and which was now visible, separates it from the plain of Chahfhddh. At H a z h 6 h the first; object that attracted our attention was Saeh MB- homed, seated, with a group of fifteen or twenty per- sons about him. I pointed him out to my m'- who, ashamed of the rebuke he had recently receiv- ed from me, affected to doubt that it was he. From H a z h 6 h to Bbsowal, a distance of about four cosses, or six miles, the high road leads over the eminences fringing the plain ; a lower road leads more direct over the cultivated lands, but is more or less difficult 80 cattle, from the numerous cuts or canals of water traversing it, supplied from in- numerable springs, issuing from the bases of the low hills at the line where they rest upon the level valley of the river, and which enable the inhabit- ants largely to cultivate rice. W e preferred the lower road in spite of its obstacles, but it was not until after sunset that we reached BQssowal; In the distance, in a lofty hill on the opposite bank of the river, are seen the caves, with triangular- shaped entrances, noted by Wilford, and which partly induced him, probably, with the proximity of Mbr Koh, which he supposes to be Mount MerG, to lo- cate the ancient city of Nysa in this neighbourhood. On this point we may not decide; caves are too numerously and too universally found, that any important deduction could be drawn from so com- paratively a trifling group as is here presented, and

BASSO WAL. 249

whether bI&r Koh may have any more serious ety- . mological signification than the snake-hill, as un-

derstood by the natives, is doubtful. Still, BLso- wal exhibits ample vestiges, as does the entire neighbourhood, of its ancient inhabitants. The caves in the hill on the opposite side of the river are also interesting evidences, as are the mounds and tumuli which accompany them at the point where the hill subsides into the plain. The various in- dications of old sepulchral localities are here very numerous ; and the spot is called Chakanor. . On reaching BLsowal we halted in a grove contiguous to one of the enclosed villages, where we found a family, who, about to proceed to Kiibal, proposed to start at midnight, and we arranged to proceed in company. My servants went to the bazk to cater for necessaries, and one of them returned with the unsatisfactory intelligence that he had seen SAleh Mghomed, with six other indivi- duals, sitting at a Hind6 dokb. They had taken -off their shirts, muffling up their faces with them, .and had tiilwArs, or sworda, in their hands. I ques- tioned him as to the certainty of the person being S%leh Mihorned, and was told there could be no -question, for he had addreseed him on recogniz- -ing him, and had received an answer from him. 1 then commissioned another servant to walk quietly up the little b d r of the place, and with- .out appearing to have been sent for the purpose, to see whether it wss truly the Ghilji, and by

260 REAPPEARANCE OF QHILJI.

what sort of people he was attended. This man, coming back, confirmed the other's statement ; and .it was clear we. had to provide against the despe- rate scoundrel and his band of muffled villains. I directed my mirza to go to the malek of the place, and desire him to wait upon me, but I scarcely had given the direction when a large armed party came from the gate of the village close to us, who proved to be the KohistXm who had preceded us from Daa, and were about 'to make a night-march towards JelaaMd. I asked them where they were going, and on being inform- ed, inquired if they would wait five minutes, or so long as our cattle were laden. They replied, "Yes;" and while the operation was in progress I was re- cognized by three or four of them, who had seen me in the Kohistih, and our understanding, therefore, ,became complete. I told them, in a few words, my position with the Ghilji, and they much wished to have returned into the village, and to have secured him and his gang. .I waa not consenting, as they were Tdjiks, and it was just possible that the peo- ple of the village might make common cause with the ruffians, as they were all Afghbs. I was well satided to be fairly out of the dilemma, and trust- ed that the companions of Siileh Miihomed, on find- ing themselves disappointed, would turn about and .beat him soundly for having deceived them, and brought them, to no purpose, from their homes. W e marched from Bbsowal, leaving the fellows

SURKH DIWAR. 251

and our apprehensions behind us. The Kohisthb exceeded forty in number, and all carried muskets. I asked them if they were loaded, and they smiled, obeerving, that the lads of the K o h i s h never travel- led with arms unloaded. We followed a road lead.. ing through marshes to the northern extremity of Mk Koh, which impinges on the river, but through which is an open narrow valley, expanding upon the plain of Chahk D6h.

On the skirts of M k Koh, overlooking Chahhr Dih is a tope, wbich I never had an opportunity to examine. We crossed this plain diagonally, clearing the southern end of the ridge, which de- fines it to the west, and came upon the village of BQti Kot, near which we halted and bivou- acked upon the plain. Before daylight we resum- ed our march, and crossed the extensive plain intervening between the last village and S6rkh Diwiir. It was intersected by rivulets, flowing- from the SaEd Koh on the south. At the commence- ment of the ravines and broken ground of SGrkh Diwh our party congregated, and we marched through them en masse. We were too strong to be attacked by any but very numerous snd: bold gangs of robbers, but the place has a very bad repute. On an eminence to our left were the remains of a large Chiighatai castle, erected, no doubt, for the protection of the road,-they now serve to shelter robbers, who make them their ordinary lurking- place. We observed a solitary individual under

262 MXRZA AGA JAN.

the' walIs, which occasioned half our party to rush up the hill, and we thoroughly scoured the ruins and their environs, but met with no other person. Clearing the ravines of SGrkh DiwBr, we gained the village of Ali Biighb, or, as sometimes called, Sama Kh6l. W e did not halt here, but continued our course towards Jelaabiid.

On reaching a z i h t , about two miles from the town, the Kohisthh halted during the heat of the day, and as I determined to push on, I made them a present to enable them to regale themselves, which delighted them, and they said they should be happy to escort me to KBbal, affirming, in their manner of expression, that they would carry me through the hills on their shoulders. Passing through the town of Jeliilabld we arrived, about a mile beyond it, at the castle of Mhza AgB Jh, where we were kindly welcomed. In the even- ing the mirza produced some tolerable wine, and, after the long journey we had made, I did not ob- ject to a piiila, or cup of it. On hearing the tale of our adventures, he said he did not at all like the Ghilji, and I observed, neither did I, but I ex- pected to hear no more of him. He seemed to fear that the fellow had been commissioned from some high quarter. I thought not, for, in that case, false badragas would have been imposed upon us, and we should hardly have escaped. I accounted for the affair in another way. I had taken with me to Peshiiwer the relics I had ex.

QHILJI'S EVIL REPORT. 253

kracted from the DarGnta topes, and they were in the k8s-kGrzh, which the Ghilji told the Mo- mands was full of ducat& and which he had fixed upon as his share of the plunder. At the desire of SGlth Miihomed K h b , and Fir MAhomed K h h , I had exhibited them, and around at the time were standing some hundred or hundred and fifty persons. I presumed that the Ghilji was one of the crowd, and having seen what he consider- ed treasure, coveted its possession, and determined to obtain it by whatever means. I subquentIy ascertained that he was, as he represented, a man of Maidh, and that he had been forced to fly on account of his improper conduct. One of the crimes imputed to him being the seduction of the wife 6f his ostAd, or teacher, amongst A f g h h a grave offence. I judged, from the stories told of him, that he had been in the employ of the s i r d h of K h d a h k as a robber and assassin ; the chiefs of these countries retaining instruments to execute their most desperate purposes. Some time afterwards, at KBbal, he found me out, and was willing to have been introduced to me, but I re- fueed to see him. In the course of 1836, five nightly attempts were successively made to enter my house by a band of muffled villains, and my thoughts naturally enough recurred to my old Ghilji friend; indeed, so long as I resided at Kilbal, from this time my house was occasionally visited by night, and I was compelled to be pre-

' 254 RENEWAL OF RESEARCHES.

pared and vigilant. ARer remaining two or three days at the castle of Mirza AgL Jb, I proceed- ed to DarGnta, and resumed operationa upon the topes, and other sepulchral monuments in that vicinity, and was for some time occupied in per- fecting the examination of objects, which my jour- ney to Pesh6wer had suspended. From DarGnta I repaired to Chahbbtgh of Jelklabhd, and instituted a series of labours upon the topes which studded the eminences confining the plain to the south. These disposed of, I passed on to Hidda, for the sake of verifying the analogous structures there, having previously obtained the sanction of Mirza AgA Jib, who held the place in jiighh. The mima e n t his brother to secure us a due reception, and to enjoin the malek and his people to afford us all the assistance we might require. While engaged here the hot winds were somewhat troubIesome, but we did not on their account suspend our labours.

CHAPTER XI.

Anival of ex-eirdhm of Peahhwer. - Hfijt KhEn'a project.-March of Doat Mahomed K h h to KILndahOr.-Feeling in the country. -Ohlisttin Khiln'e rebellion. -His meeaap to Amfr Maihomed KhfLn.- Faction of Nawlb Jab& Run.-His propod to Doet MBhomed Khh-Letter to the SW.-Imprudence of the Sh&. - Action near KlndahQ. - Flight of the Shilh. - Fate of his followem.- E m m of the expedition. - Intercepted compon- deuce-AbdGl Samad's villainy.-Doet MBhomed Khhn's wish. - State of affairs at Kibal. - Letter from Kbmriin. - Deport- ment of Khdahhr eird8m.-Return to KAbal. - Death of Amfr Mdhomed K h E n c S h a m d i n Khb.-Proeeediage of ex-sir* of PeshBwer. - Occupation of JelBlaW. - Dinavowal of their officers.- Meeting with Dost Maihomed Kh4n.-Letter to Ran- jit Singh.- Kbriin'e offers to Shah SGjah a1 MG1kh.- The ShWs distrust. - Flies to L h h - to S i n - t o BalochiiAn.- Pursuit of the Sh6h.--Generosity of Mehdb Kh&n.-The ShAh retiree upon Zehri and BPgh. - Honesty of Samandar K h h . - His death. - The ShWe reception at Haidambid-Hie return to LGdi6na-Dost MQhomed KhBn'e letter to LGdib-Reply. -Saiyad Keramat AlVe officiouweea - Dost bidhomed W e promise. - The Saiyad'e dilemma - His ingenuity- His good fortune.

I WAS yet occupied at Hidda when SGlth Mi- homed Khh, having failed by submission and en- treaty to induce the Sikhs to relinquish their recent conquest, and being unable longer to subsist his Followers, abandoned the plain of Peshiwer, and,

266 HAJI KHAN'S PROJECT.

md Minchhi and the pass of Karapa, entered the valley of Jeliilabiid. Simultaneously, his brother, Fir Miihomed Khiin, having journeyed from KohPt, crossed the SaGd Koh range and descended upon Kajar, where SGlt&n Maomed K h h marched and joined him. With Pin Mihomed K h h was NQib Hiiji KhAn. I have before noticed the sirdir's boast that he possessed three Iiikhs of rupees, that he cared not who knew it, and that, despite of his vaunts to employ i t against the Sikhs, he thought better to preserve it. The treasure he had with him ; and when from Kohiit he had entered Bangash, Haji K h h wished to have persuaded him to take the road of Khost, where, in concert with the turbulent natives, he had hoped to have secured the prize. Pir Miihomed K h h was saved by the G h G l h K h h chief5 with him, who apprised bim of the nGb's &sips, and led him by the direct road through Bangash, the Tiiri inhabitants of which are Shiss, the reason ostensibly urged by Hiiji K h h for wishing to conduct the sirdiir amongst the Af- g h b s of Khost.

Dost Miihomed K h h had proceeded from Kabal to ~ & n d a h & to mis t in the repulse of ShAh Siijah a1 MGlkh, who for some time bad invested the place, and had made an unsuccessful attempt to carry it by assault. His brother, Amir Miihomed K h h , was left in charge of Kiibal. The march of Dost Mihomed K h h was a hazardous step, but one called for by the crisis. It was matter of noc

STATE OF AFFAIRS. 267

toriety that the chiefs of his army were well dis- posed towards the shkh, with whom they were in comespondence. Indeed, the G h b l h K h h a lead- ers had resolved to return from Ghazni, to secure the person of Amir Miihomed Khb, and to pro- claim the sh&. From this resolution, which, if

1 carried into effect, would then have sealed the doom of Dost MQhomed KhAn and the B&ak Zais, they were diverted by the timid counaels of one of their number, Mtihomed Bligher K h h , who suggested that it would be better that the AfghOlla should set the example in defection. Of the feel- ings of the inhabitants of the country at large there wae also little question, but their sympathy in the shWs cam was passively displayed in the expreseion of good wishes, not in the energy of action, which might have contributed to its suc- cese. It is remarkable, that the only attempt to create a movement in favour of the shiih waa made by GGlisth KhAn, the H a z h chief of Khbiigh, south of Ghazni, at the close of the autumn of the past year; and even he did not avow himself act- ing in behalf of the shah, but made resistance to oppr&.sion the plea for his rebellion. He boldly engaged and defeated the G h d troops sent against him, and had hoped to have set the precedent fbr a general rising, but the apathy of the mass waa not disturbed, and no one appeared to side with him. Amir Miihomed Khan, in charge of Ghwni conscious of the delicate state of the times, did

VOL. 111. s .

not press matters witb the ref'ractory chief, and even soothed him by concessions. Under pretence of confemng a khelat upon him, he wished to have allured him to an interview; but, if purposing treachery, GGlisGn K h h was too experienced in h b % stratagems to place himself in the power of one to whom he had given so much cause for jealousy. His reply was characteristic. He said, that in conformity to the sirdWs orders he had mounted and taken the road to G h a d , but had not travelled far when he met oertain maleks (re- femng to Afghh maleks put to death by Amir M6homed Khln) with their heads in their hands, who inquired of him where he was going, and if he wished to be treated as they had been. Know- ing them to be Afghhs, he thought it possible they were wilfully giving him evil-counsel, and he proceeded, paying no attention to what they said. He had not gone much farther when Mir Y e 5 dhbaksh met him, with his head also in his hands, who exclaimed, " Unhappy man, whither are you going? Is not my fate a warning to you ?" Now, he said, he could not discredit one of his own HmQras, and returned. Amir Miihomed K h h , however he relished this instructive communica- tion, sent a khelat to Khbkgh, nor insisted upon the Haebra chiefs attendance. Now that Dost M& homed K h h had marched, a son of GGlisth K h b , with a party of horse, accompanied the army. It has before been noted, that the Naw&b Jab& K h h

FEELING IN' THE COUNTRY. 269

corresponded with the sh$h under the idea, which beaet him, that his expedition was set forth with the approbation, as it must have been with the knowledge and indirect sanction, of the British-In- d-ian government. He had formed a strong party in Dost Mihomed KhAn's camp, and the NawPbs Miihomed ZemAn K h h , Mdhomed O s m h Khh , and others, had bound themselves to act in respect to the s h a precisely as he might direct. The sh& I have been told, agreed that the Nawiib MQhomed Z e m h KMn was to receive Jelsllabbd, and the Nawiib Jab& K h h the government of the Ghiljia, of which they had been deprived by Dost MQ- homed K h h ; while Mhhomed O s m h KhPn was to retain the jiighir he held. The Nawab Jab& K h b , first taking care of himself and his con- federates, not desiring absolutely to ruin Dost Mihomed K h h , aimed to procure some a'mnge- ment in which his interests might be consult ed. It is impossible to conceive what plan he had devised, but at Ghazni he much entreated Dost Mdhomed K h h to permit him to proceed in advance to KPndahb, for the purpose of mak- ing terms with ShPh SGjah a1 Mfilkh, never doubting but that the sh& would be victorious. Dost Mdhomed Khan replied, Lhla (a term of affection), there will be time enough for that when we are defeated ; and addressed a letter him- self to the shAh, ironically setting forth that his brothers at KIndah& were uncouth men, and did

s 2

260 POSITION OF THE SHAH.

not understand the respect due to imperial dig- nity ; that he, more enlightened on the subject, was on the road, and on reaching them would teach his brothere their duty, and escort him (the shAh) to Kkbal, with all honour. The march from Ghazni to Khdah6.r waa rapid, and on his arrival there he well knew that his only chance of safety was to join battle immediately, for had he delayed but a few days he would have been abandoned by his troops. The sh&h, hitherto, had been entrenched in a position resting upon the city of Khdahir, destroyed by Niidir, and had he remained there his enemies would have been destroyed, without an effort on his part. His headstrong temper and self- will proved his ruin, for, rejecting the counsels of Samander K h b and his chiefs, on the arrival of the KAbal army he abandoned his entrenchments and moved to the northern extremity of the hill, a t whose base the old town of HGss6n K h h stands, and occupied, with his troops, the gardens which abound at that point. He pretended that it was dis- graceful to be pent up within lines of breastwork; but his object was clearly that of having, in case of discomfiture, his rear open to flight, for it has always been the bane of the shlih to be deficient in the actual crises of his battles, and to be more ex- pert in providing for his personal safety than for victory. ,

Some of the GhGlh Khkna chiefs actually went by night to join the shAh, but finding his position

FLIQHT OF THE SHAH. 261

abandoned, and ignorant .where to find him, they returned to the camp. The folly of the king having done all that Dost M6homed K h h and his brothers could have wished, they lost no time in bringing on an action, and the aha , seemingly with equal alacrity, precipitated his troops into battle, while, with the same breath that he urged them forward he issued orders to arrange for flight. While the troops were yet engaged the pusillanimous monarch left the field, following his treasure, which had been sent off the preceding night.

Dost Mdhomed K h h , aware of the temper of his followers, while making the best arrangements in his power, had great mistrust of the event, as was manifested by the deapatch of his equipage to Killa Azem, a march in the rear. With about two thousand men, on whom he could most cer- tainly rely, he maintained himself aloof, as it were watching the various fortunes of the field. On one d o n he drew his sword, and directed a forward movement, but after galloping some fifty yards again reined up. I t is difficult to comprehend the nature of the action that took place. No two accounts agree, the consequence of all acting inde- pendently, and without concert or orders. A weak battalion of the aha , commanded by an Anglo-In- &an, Mr. Campbell, carried all before it, dispersing in succession the battalion of Abdul Samad and the cavalry of the Khdahiir chiefe, and of Miihomed Akbar Khin ; entangled at length between the

262 FATE OF HIS FOLLOWERS.

high banks of a dry water-course, it was over- whelmed, and Mr. Campbell, wounded, was made prisoner. His treatment waa most handsome, and he was subsequently taken by Dost Miihomed K h h to Kkbal. Of Samander K h h , the gene- ralissimo of the shth's army, nothing was heard. This chief had the reputation of being a very giirg, or wolf, in combat, and Dost Miihomed K h h en- tertained of him so much dread that his counte- nance or words betrayed it whenever his name was mentioned. Some of his relatives, however, distinguished themselves, and fell on the field vic- tims to their zeal. A variety of causes are as- cribed as producing the disaster of the sub , but all are reducible to his own incapacity and irresolu- tion. Had he been endued with a little sense and firmness, the treachery or cowardice of Jehandiid K h b , the inertness of Samander K h h , and the want of regularity amongst his followers, might not have been evinced. Indeed, the whole expedition had been one of blunders, and its termination in failure and disgrace was but the natural result of ite conception and prosecution in folly and error. Doat Mfihomed KhAn's sons fought, if to little pur- pose, but the nawtbs, the GhGlim K h h a troops, and others, stood immoveable in line, and did not even return the fire which they received. Their eyes wandered in vain over the field to discover the ehtlh's etandard. It had never been raised. The triumph of the B h k Zais was followed by

INTERCEPTED CORWPONDENCE. 263

the usual scenes of slaughter and plunder, and the entire artillery, stores, and camp of the fugitive shgh fell into their hands. His records and corre- spondence became the prize of the Khdahlir bro- thers, who transferred them to Dost Miihomed K h h . H e wisely took no notice of the circumstance at the time, although i t is believed that he intended to have swept out his own house, and to have wreaked his vengeance upon the G h G l h Khkna leaders. Amongst the documents found was a copy of the treaty negotiated between the shah and Ranjit Singh, and a variety of letters bearing the seal of Claude Martine Wade S h i b BahMar, addressed to various individuals, apprising them that any ser- vice rendered to the shAh would be considered as rendered to the British government. M'ma S a d K h h more than once told me of this circumstance, saying that one of the letters was addressed to himself. He was accustomed to add, that the sh& had a knack of forging seals, and he might have exercised his dexterity in this instance. What he believed I cannot tell. Whether the letters were spurious or otherwise, the shiih had not employed them.

AbdGl Samad, who, with the Nawhb Jab& K h b , had corresponded with the sh& through the me- dium of the British agent, Saiyad Keramat Ni- who, again, considered he was advancing the views of his government, -had, as soon as he reached K h d a - h&, sent one of his battalion men with a masage

to the royal camp, in which he wos found on its capture. AbdGl Samad, to conceal his own guilt, without allowing' time for explanation, blew the unlucky man from a gun.

The K k u d h k chiefs were anxious to have pur- sued the flying monarch, but Dost Miihomed K h h did not concur ; and thorn best acquainted with his views and wishes insiat that he had really no desire to secure the pereon of the s h a , although a very great one to possess himself of Shghzkda MLhomed Akbar, the king's son by his own sister, as he would thereby have had, in any crisis of his aWre, a very convenient instrument to have elevated to royal dignity. As matters stood, however, he felt the neceesity of returning to Kkbal, where his brother, Am'u Miihomed K h h , waa dangerously sick, while the s i r d h of Peshiiwer, encamped in the Jeliilabiid valley, might profit by his absence. Besides, there were symptoms of discontent in the Kohisth, ex- cited by GhGl6.m RasGl Khkn of Perwh, who had left the army on its march from Ghami to KAnda- hb , and judging that the supremacy of the B h k Zais was drawing to a close, had returned to his home, and, by collecting troops, sought at once to promote the shWs came and to avenge his per- sonal feuds and animosities. While Dost Miihomed K h h waa yet at Kbdahiir, he received a letter from Shk i ida K h d n of HerBt, professing that he was in nowise interested in the fate or fortunes of Shih Siijah a1 MGlkh. No greater importance

.DEBTH OF AMIR MAHOBhD KHAN. 266

was attached to this letter than was due to the fact of the Sh&hz&da having condescended to send it ; as he was not in the habit of corresponding with the B h k Zais, whom he affected to consider as rebellious slaves. At this time it was within the power of the confederated chiefs to have annihi- lated the Herit ruler, but their own mieerable die ensions effectually neutralised the ample means a t their command. Notwithstanding the K h d a h L chief0 owed their safety to Dost MBhomed Khan, they omitted on no occasion to treat him slightingly, and to assert their superiority, while they were so mistrustful of him as not to admit him within the walls of the city. Carrying off fifteb of the guns captured from the shiih, the K&bal chief set out from Kilndahb, and on his road picked up an ad- dition to the number of his wives, in the person of a sister of the Thoki chief, with whom he formed a political as well as matrimonial alliance. On reaching Kiibal he found hie brother, A& MQho- med Khtln, living, indeed, but speechleas, and in the arms of death. The last audible words uttered by him were inetructions to sell the old grain con- tained in certain magazines, and to replace it with new, exemplifying in his last momenta the domi- nant principle of thrifi and gain, which had dis- tinguished him through life. As with very many provident fathers, he had a most improvident and thoughtless son ; and the youthful Shamsodin K h h , on proceeding to Ghazni to assume charge of the

266 PRWEEDINQS OF THE EX-SIRDARS.

property to which he had become heir, remarked to his attendants, " What an excellent thing .it ie to have no father !"

W e have noted the arrival of the fugitive chiefs of Peshiiwer in the valley of JelQabiid. As soon as they were aware that Dost M6homed K h h had passed Ghazni, imagining, like other people, that his defeat was certain, and informed of the alarming sickness of Amir Miihomed K h b at KAbal, they began to avow their intentions of possessing them- selves of the province, and their several dependent officers were commissioned to occupy the various towns and villages. M'uzas I m h Verdi and A@ Jib, who administered the country on the part of Amh Miihomed KhAn, retired to the castle of b i z K h h , Ghilji, in Khach of Liighmb, and it quietly dropped into the hands of SbltAn Maomed Khkn and hie adherents. Matters had been in this state but a few days, when tidings of Dost Miihomed Khb's victory arrived. S b l t h Miihomed K h h recalled his officers, pretending they had acted without his orders or sanction, and repeated salutes of artillery testified to the joy he felt on the happy occasion. He next proceeded to Kiibal, which he reached before Dost Maomed Khan, and advanced to meet that chief to Killa Kbi. He was received courteously, and was told, that, the sh4h disposed of, it remained to recover Peshbwer from the Sikhs. Hiiji K h h , whose fortune again brought him to con- front Dost Mhhomed K h b , was assured that the psst

THE SHAH AT FAMU. 267

was forgotten, the chief remarking, that if he had abandoned him he had joined another of the family, and had not connected himself with strangers. A crusade against the Sikhs was immediately pro- claimed, and letters were despatched to Rsnjit Singh, calling upon him to give up Peshiiwer to SGlth Miihomed K h h , from whom he had fur- tively acquired it, while Dost Mihomed K h b was engaged in the repulse of Sh& S6jah a1 MGlkh, as much the enemy of t.he Miihbiiji as of the B h k Zais.

As we shall hereafter have no opportunity of alluding to the vanquished Shiih SGjah a1 MGlkh, i t may be explained here, that his flight from the field of battle at KAndahh was directed to Farra, which he reached in safety. Sh&hz&da Kiimrh on hearing of his arrival despatched handsome presents, and a letter, stating that he was interested. in the shih's favour, that his success would be agreeable to Em, and in accordance with his own plans. He recommended another attempt to be made upon Kflndahh, as Dost Miihomed Kh&n could scarcely march a second time to its relief, and proffered to send his son, Sh&&da JehAngh'u, with four thousand horse, and guns, to assist.

Of the sincerity of K h r h those with the king did not doubt, but he, always suspicious, fancied that Prince J e h h g h h would be instructed to seize him, and this idea so completely possessed his mind that he precipitately fled from Farra .

268 PURSUIT OF THE SHAH.

to LQh, the fortress and domain of SAlG K h h . This chief, in disgrace with ShilhzBda KhrBn, accorded the rites of hospitality to the king his guest, but did not, perhaps could not, further assist him. It is hard to determine whether the shAh was warranted in his apprehensions of Sh&- zbda KhrAn. His seizure did not follow as a consequence of the ShAhziidtVs offers of mistance, but was an event quite compatible with the spirit of A f g h h diplomacy. I n truth, the proposal to conquer KAndahk for him evinced more generosity than the ah& was conscious be deserved, and very probably he imagined that he was about to be made a tool of, and when the object was gained would be discarded, or placed in durance. From Lhh, he directed his steps across the desert of S i t i n towards KalAt of Balochisttn ; and Rah6.m Dil K h h of Kihdahar, informed of his movements, made an effort to intercept him. The shkh had here need of all his good fortune. Having gained the territory of KalLt, he had encamped at the southern extremity of the plain of Mangarchar, between MastGng and the capital, when R s h h Dil K h b , with three hundred horse, reached its northern extremity. Thence he sent out his spies to procure precise intelligence of the shah, of whose proximity he was ignorant. One of them, who ascertained the shiih's position, sympathized with royalty ip

misfortune, and informed him of his danger. Not . a moment was lost; and the king, with a few at-

GENEROSITY OF MEHRAB KHAN. 269

tendants, galloped off towards W n i , a little village about six milea from Kalit. The spy, on his return to RahAm Dil KhAn, told him that the sh6h had taken the Bolan route, which induced the chief to follow smartly in that direction, but finding on his road that he was in error he returned and made his way to G d n i . The sh&h had previously amved at Kaltlt, where Mehriib K h h , the BAhGi ruler, was encamped in a garden. The monarch, without ceremony, walked directly into his tent, and claimed his protection. It waa instantly ac- corded. Diioud Maomed, the Ghilji advieer of the K h b , in vain entreated his master to deliver up the defeated prince, who was fortified in his reeolu- tion by his wife, Bibi Ghinjb. Mehriib K h h intimated to Rah6.m Dil K h b at Garhi that it was unbecoming in him to pursue an unfortunate Sad6 Zai king with so much nmcour, and, inform- ing him that he had determined to protect him, recommended that he should retire. The k h h subsequently sent the shhh to Zehri, that he might repose a while after his fatigues and adventures; after which he went to Wgh in Kachi.

Here he found Samander K h b , who creditably enough delivered to him a sum of money, left in his castle at Quetta, when the advance was made on Kindah&, and counselled a fresh effort for the conquest of that place. The shlh approved the plan, and commenced the levy of troops, when Samander Khin fell suddenly sick, and died. The

270 SHAH'S RETURN TO LUDIANA.

shih next proceeded to Haidarabiid in Sind, where M'u Sohabdbi; one of the mirs, thought fit to in- fringe the etiquette the monarch in misfort.une even insisted upon, and strove rudely with his follow- ers to enter the royal tent. The shah gave the order "Bizan," or slay, and two or three of the mir's adherents paid the forfeit of their chiefs indiscretion. The other m'm were at hand to mo- derate the king's ire, and to excuse the conduct of their boisterous relative, however it may have been evinced with their contrivance and knowledge. The sh& finally finding he could do no better, returned to Lhdiha, from whence he had started, bringing with him, as is asserted, more money than he had taken away.

Dost Mithomed Kh&n when at Jeliilabiid, and previous to his march to Khdahib, had written to the political agent at LLGdfha, desiring to be informed if Sh& SGjah a1 MGlkh marched with the support of the British Government, observing, that if he proceeded with a few followers without such support, it were an easy matter to dispose of him, but if with it, the case became different, and he could not hope to oppose him and the British Government combined. The political agent re- plied, that the Government had nothing whatever to do with the shkh's movements, but that they were his well-wishers.

It has been noticed that Saiyad Keramat Ali, adopting the general impression, had committed

himself by becoming the medium of correspondence between the NawAb Jab& K h h , Abd61 Samad, and others at Kibal, with the sh%h. His conduct was not likely to be concealed from Dost M6homed K h b ; and as the saiyad's licentious opinions on religion had rendered him obnoxious to many people, they urged upon Dost Mlihomed K h h the propriety of seizing him, and expelling him the 'country. One of his bitterest opponents, AkkGnd Mbhomed, obtained from Dost Mhhomed K h h the promise to do so should he succeed in defeating ShBh SGjah a1 M61kh; and at Kbdahir, when the saiyad's letters, with the others, turned up in the shWs camp, the fulfilment of the pro- mise was claimed, and in the temper the sirdir was in he was readily induced to send orders to Amir Miihomed K h h to place the saiyad under

0 arrest. The Nawib J a b k KhAn, apprised of the circumstance, also despatched a letter to ~ m i r Mihomed K h h , conjuring him, if he esteemed him a brother, to respect the saiyad's liberty, and another to his favourite wife, directing her on no account to allow the saiyad to be taken from her house, while he urged all his influence with Dost MBhomed K h h to have the order rescinded. The saiyad, in this dilemma, shrewdly enough gave out that he was ordered to return to India, which, if he did not reach by a certain date his pay was to be stopped; and further, that his wife was waiting for him at Moal Pindi. The sudden sickness of

272 THE SAIYAD'S INGENUITY.

Amh MBhomed KhAn may have saved the saiyad ; and the nawAb was enabled to represent to Dost Mihomed K h h that it was needless to expel a man who was himself going, and whose wife was waiting for him at Rhoal Pindi

CHAPTER XII.

Start on a tour to Khonar.-Bid.-Tokchi-Topes.-Piilwilri.- Bazhk . - Khonah DCh. - Malek Shafi. - KohistBnis. - KhhhBl Khiln.-Tope of Khonah DPh.-Killa PBdsh&.-Fati MBhomed KhBn.-1shaMd.-Saiyad H i d m and hia ladies. -Mistaken for BBzi-gham-Remains at Islhab4d.-Route to Chit1-21.-Dam NGr.-Bmkot and Daminj.-MBhomed Zemln

- KhPn's failure.-K8zi Khkl family.-Feud.-B1langar.-BisGt. -Return to Titang.-Trip to L6ghmBn.-Killa KUr.-Cha- hlrbagh. - Kergah. - MandaAwar. - T i w - . - Rivers of Alishang and Alingdr. - M6mjlima.- Namzh Bhi.- Fatal accident.-Ziht Mktar L h SBhib.-Tomb.-Wilford's re- veries-Native traditions.-Suldn MBhmGd's dream.- Dis- covery of Lamech'a grave.-Ancient vestiges.--Koh Karinj.- Alishang. - Nadjfi. - Malek Osmh. - Slleh RBn6 Kot. - . Rubies.-Alingh. - Dara N~&L - Revenue of LGghmh. - Extent of cultivation.-Crops.-Eela.-Fire-flies.-Inhabitants. -Skilful agriculturiste. -Amusing story.- MBhomed Akbar KhWs dieaster.-Tope of Mbkhi Kh6l.-Conjectures.-Nokar Khkl-MGrkhi Kh6l.J6j;jis.-Nae~lah~Tumulue of Nokar Khk1.-Departure for KPba1.-Terikki.-Anival a t KAhl.

THE unsettled state of the country was nnfavour- able to the continuance of my researches, and I left Hidda, where I might otherwise have longer stayed, for Tbtang. After resting a day or two, 1 repaired to my old haunts of Dariinta, and directed the examination of a number of tumuli, which abound there, some apparently connected with the topes, but many of them, it was fair to

VOL. m. T

274 TOUR TO KHONAR.

infer, independent structures. I was occupied some time with them, when, taking my workmen, with their implements, we strrrted on a tour into Khonar, as well to discover if there were any monuments there as to see that part of the county. W e lefi the castle of N&b Y& Mihorned, my headquarters at Dariinta, myself, as well as my companions, on foot, and tracing the bank of the river, crossed it a t the ferry of Beh& Itobiit, where I saw the process of washing for gold. The road for about a mile led from the feny across a small marsh choked with reeds, sling the space between the river and a low hill to the north of i t ; when we crossed a spur from the hill stretching towards the stream, on which is a white tomb, called the Kabar LGli, and entered the plain of BhGt. A mile brought us to the village of Kerimab6d; a little beyond which are the two castles of Be- n k Khan. W e followed the high ,road skirting the cultivated lands, having between us and the hills a greater or less extent of barren surface. Traversing the entire extent of the valley from west to east, we reached at night a small Afghhn fortlet, called Killa Shbhgalli, north of the village of Bilmgar. In the morning we moved on to Tokchi, and came upon the Khneh, or river of Khonar, the hills on eit,her side of it approaching. In what is called the tall)# of Tokchi are three castles, one of them a superior one, named Binigdh, built by AbdGl Ganni K h h , one of the B h k

ABDUL KHELPULWARI. 275

Zai family. It has a large extent of good land adjacent, and on the hill opposite to it on the west are the remains of a minute tope; curiosity had led, very possibly, AbdGl Ganni K h h himself to examine the structure; and whatever else he may have found, a huge block of stone, lying amongst the rubbish, plainly informed us that it had once been more honourably situated within the monument. Beyond the castles we walked for a considerable distance through marshes and flags, until we reached a z i h t at the comer of a low detached hill, a few yards to the ertst of us being the small village of AbdGl Kh6l. Here also we found a tope, of more coneiderable dimen- sions, but of ruder construction, which, with re- ference to the structures on the plain of JeliilaMd, would rank in the third, or inferior class. It had no signs of embellishment, and not a trace of the coating of cement with which, we may conjecture, i t was once covered, was visible. I t had been perforated at some former period on all sides, and although it was impossible to decide whether the relics had been discovered, there was little en- couragement to employ our labour in search of them. In age the monument appeared to agree with those of Hidda. About a mile beyond the z i h t we reached the castles of PGlwWi, having passed to our right, on and about an eminence near the river, a very considerable ancient place of sepulture, evidenced by the usual tokens of

T 2

276 TOPE OF KEONAH DEH.

walls, mounds, &c. I .have been told that there iu an inscription here, but could never find any one able to point it out. From PGlwiifi we went on to ShEghi, an enclosed village, of about three hundred houses, where we halted for the day, in a grove of plane-trees adjacent. The following morning our route led us to B a z h k , also a wall- ed-in village of three hundred houses. Resting awhile there, we were visited by Piidaha GGl, the hereditary malek, who sent an offering of pome- granates. From hence we passed on to Khonah DEh, a emall enclosed village of sixty houses, seated on an eminence; behind which was a small, but very perfect tope, in style of architecture greatly resembling the tope Nandhra of Dariinta, and I should judge, of the same age. The basement and

I cylindrical superstructure were very entire. This monument I should have been pleased to have opened, but as soon aa I learned that the village belonged to Malek Shafi KhPn I suspected there would be difficulty. This man had long been the petty tyrant of this part of the country, and was connected with the inhabitants of Dam NGr, amongst whom, when pressed by the authorities, he took refuge, and who, if required, furnished him with their bands. By their instrumentality he had become paramount over his immediate neighbours, and during the feeble sway of M C homed Z e m h Khhy whom he little feared, had made himself of some notoriety. Amfr Miihomed

CONDITIONS OF OPENINQ TOPE. 277

Khhn's first care on receiving charge of the Jel& labid province, was to reduce to a due sense of their dependent situation the several maleks, who had too much presumed on the weakness of his predecessor. Malek Shafi K h h early received his attention, and, agreeably to the plan of at- tempering severity with kimhm, waa fined five thousand rupees, and then made to give his daugh- ter to a son of the chief. I found the malek waa close at hand, in the neighbouring village of Kal- latak, which he holds in jighir, and therefore paid him my respects. He received me as I anticipated, very coolly, and on starting the question as to whether he had any objection to my employing workmen on the tope, without absolutely replying that he had, his language waa by no means en- couraging. He was surrounded by his armed at- tendants, men of the Dara NGr, or KohistSi, as here called, and they conversed with him in their own peculiar dialect, which, however, is so mixed up with Hindi, that I, and others of my people, comprehended the drift of their discourse. We understood that we might open the tope, but should not be permitted to carry off what we found in it. I therefore wished the nialek good-b'ye for the present, telling him I should call upon him again, when Dost M6homed K h h came with his troops to Jeliilabiid, although I doubted whether I should have the pleasure of seeing him, as he then would be, probably, off to the Dara NGr.

278 CASTLE OF FAT1 MAHOMED KHAN.

KhGshAl KhAn, Jab6.r Kh61, of Kirgah in LGgh- mkn, one of his friends, and his surety with the , Bird% Amir Mihomed Khkn, waa on a visit to him, and present at our interview. Being aleo an acquaintance of mine, he strove to induce the malek to be civil and compliant, but to no pur- pose, and following me after I arose, told me that he was involved in Malek Shafi's faction, but must confess he was a desperate man, and not to be trusted.

The malek, about forty years of age, had a fine commanding presence ; but his countenance, while expressive of ability, alike betrayed his little scrw pulous and reckless disposition. My experience with topes induced me to conjecture that this one of Khonah DCh had been erected over a relic of some saint, and that we should not have found any coins in it. In the hills behind it are a number of caves, proving the spot to have been a v'rhiira, or monastery, as there are more than would have been necessary in simple connexion with the monument. W e now passed the village of Kallatak, containing, within walls, about five hundred houses, and proceeded to ShGva, another village, of three hundred houses, where we halted for the day. The river was now a little distance to the south. From Sh6va we passed in the morning to Larnatak, a village of sixty houses, and thence to Killa Piidah& the deserted seignorial castle of Fati Mhhomed Khan, Popal Zai. This noble-

man was one of the sirdim and friends of Miihomed Azem KhAn in Kbhmir, and had received s u b - tial proofs of his patron's favour. He was reputed, and perhaps with justice, wealthy, and on that account, as well as others, did not venture to place himself in the power of Dost Mdhomed Khgn. So long as Mihomed Z e m h K h h re- tained authority at JeliihMd he attached himself to his intemsts, and enjoyed in return a consi- derable revenue from Khonar. He erected the killa, or cacstle, which we now ssw in decay, and planted omhards and gardens, making the retreat a very agreeable and commodious one. He con-

I trived to extricate himself from Jeliilabiid a day or two before its capture, and escaped to Peshiiwer, but Doat Miihomed K h h eeized and confiscated his property in Khonar. The Naw&b Jabk Khan was. much displeased, one of his wivm, and the moat powerful of them, being a daughter of Fati Miihomed Khgn; and thought that, for his sake, the caetle and property might have been spared. Dost Mhhomed K h b , on his part, was glad that the opportunity occurred to annoy the feelings of his relative.

From Killa Piidshkh we moved on to Isl6.m- abbd, a small walled-in village, where resides Saiyad H i d m , of the family of the saiyads of Khonar. As we were following the path people came from the village, shouting to us to retire, and driving away the weavers, plying their looms uhder the

280 SAIYAD HISSAM AND HIS LADIES.

shade of the trees. The saiyad and his ladies, i t seemed, were about to walk to a garden and sum- . mer-house by the river-side, and, of courae, no profane eyes were permitted even to look upon such sacred and reserved objects. W e took the liberty to advance in place of retiring, and when we were at a due distance a report was made, and out stalked Saiyad H i a s h , a corpulent, un- wieldy personage, attended by a flock of chad- dered females. When they had nearly reached the garden we returned towards the village; and the saiyad, looking back, observed my companions, with their implements shouldered, and it occurring to him that they were bki-ghars, or merry-an- drews with their poles, he bellowed with a voice like thunder for them to come down and divert 1 his ladies ; but some one, probably, informing him of his mistake, he again roared out, and motioned with his hand for them to be OK

W e here inquired as to the road in advance, and found it not advisable to proceed farther, as,

though we were many, we were unarmed. W e had already witnessed at Killa Piidshiih that the men of the Dam NGr came into the .little hamlet there, and violently helped themselves to m y trifling thing they coveted, and we very nearly had a scuffle with them.

The valley hence becomes contracted, and we could see up it for about three miles, to a place called KGndi, when it turns to the north. Im-

RETURN TO KILLA PADSHAH. 281

mediately behind IslhpGr is a hill, covered with the remains of walls and parapets, indicating a place of ancient sepulture. On one of the emi- nences are the remains of a very small tope, so dilapidated to the south that the interior of the building is exposed, and shows that a perpendi- cular shaft extended from top to bottom. At KGndi, I was informed, were similar vestiges, but to a greater extent. At this place the valley of Khonar may correctly be said to commence, as beyond it are the petty towns and villages held by the varioue member0 of the saiyad family, for many generations established in it, as Khonar, Peshat, &c.

It would be an interesting journey tb follow the course of the river from this point to Chi- trill ; and, while collecting all the information I could respecting it, I did not question but that, with due precaution, the route was a practicable one.

From Islhabbd we returned to Killa PQdshiih, and remained there during the heat of the day. This castle is placed at the entrance of a valley leading up the hills to the north, in which are the castles of BGdWi Shrhch, Amlah, &c., and which breaks off into the valley of D m NGr on the east, and into the valleys of Barkot and Daminj on the west. At its upper extremity is a castle, called Killa PQdshilh, alike built by Fati Miihomed K h h , por~sibly for the coercion of, or

282 DARA NUR.

as a check upon, the neighbouring tribes. I t ww regarded by them with great jealousy, and at the time of his disasters was taken possession of. It ,

is now held by Maleks Khodii Nazar and Mastapha Dara NGr is inhabited by people calling them-

selves S6fih4, but speaking their own peculiar dia- lect, and not understanding the Pashto language. They are a straightforward, manly race, with florid complexions, light eyes, and hair. They have many peculiar customs, and retain many vestiges of an- cient arts ; for instance, they have bee-hives, un- known to the inhabitants of the plains. Their valley is most celebrated amongst their neighbours as being the native soil of the nerkhis (narcissus), posies of which brought therefrom I have seen. I t is aErmed that there is a variety of the flower with black petals. The hills of the inhabitants yielding grapes, quantities of wine and vinegar are made by them; the few samples of the former I have met with were sour and unpalatable, and did not cause me to admire the beverage of the SSifis. The valleys of Barkot and Daminj, to the west of Dam NGr, are alike inhabited by Sbfh, inde- pendent and lawless, but engaged in enmity with their neighbours of the contiguous dam. Barkot is said to include about one hundred and fifty families, and Daminj the same number, or a few more. The people of the two d m , unable to contend with their more numerous enemies, are strictly leagued with the inhabitants of KbhmGn,

CASTLES OF THE KAZI KHEL. 283

a village high up in the hills still farther to the west.

M6homed Z e m h K h h , during his exercise of power, marched with a force to compel the in- habitantamof Barkot to become raiyata, and to pay tribute. They flooded the approaches to their val- ley, and the sirdk retired disgrscefully, after lomng 'many of his men. He consoled himself by the boast that he had been where N&dir had never been.

Towards the afternoon we retraced our steps to Lamatak and Sh6vs, the road pleaeantly lead- ing along a canal fringed with trees, on which vines were spreading in festoons above. From ShBva, inatead of again visiting Kalatak, we skirted the river-bank, and passing three csstles, called col- lectively Kills Noh JGi, the property of Malek Shafi K h h , we came to a wignorial castle, be- longing to Sddadh, father of Mir Saifadin Khh, the k h h mtilla of Kiibal. Hence we passed on to Shkghi, where we fixed ourselves for the night. In this neighboarhood are the family castles of the KAz5 Kh6l family of. Kiibal, from whom the k b i and khan mGlla, with others of the hier- archy, are provided. Their ancestor, FaizGlah, k b i to TaimGr ShAh, was a person of great influence; he was succeeded in office by his son S6dadi11, now living retired in this neighbowhood, one of whose sons is the actual k h h mGlla. Murder has been committed in this family, one of. them,

284 RETURN TO TATANG.

Saiyad Habib, having been slain by his brother 3 consequently there is a serious feud in it ; and it is probable that in a few years the ruin of the whole will follow in the train of the fratri- cide.

From ShCghi on the succeedillg day, we re- turned by the road we had come to Killa Shgh- galli, and thence moved on to Bilangar, a village of two hundred houses, where we halted. The next day, having previously skirted the plain of BisGt to the north, we took a central road through the villages and cultivated lands. This led us by the castles of Manohar K h h and AbdGl GafGr K h h to BhGt, the ancient village, giving name to the plain. I t waa small, enclosed within walls, and contained a slight bazar. The neighbourhod waa cheerful, from its pastures and clusters of date- trees. Thence, at a short distance, we passed the smaller village of Abdh, and afterwards the two castles of Benhes K h h , from which we made the village of Kerimabiid. From that place we gained Kabar LGE, and thence passed on to Killa BehG Robiit, where we halted for the night. The following morning we crossed the river, and re- joined our headquarters at Killa N6ib Yiir M& homed. I was sufficiently pleased with this pe- destrian excursion to meditate another to LGgh- m h ; and, allowing my companions a day or two to repose themselves, I went on to Tgtang, to look after my hokes, and to ascertain if aught worthy

SINGULAR SPOT. 286

of my attention had occurred during my ab- sence.

Returning to DarGnta, I started with my com- panions to LGghmkn.

From the niiib's castle, a course of nearly two miles brought us to the termination of the Sigh Koh range, through a fissure in the extremity of which the river of Kkbal escapes from the valley of LGghmAn into that of Jeliilabiid. This spot always appeared to me as singular as it is pictu- resque. On the rocks on either side there am water-marks, considerably, perhap eixty to aighty feet, above the highest level the river now attains. On the summit of the eminence on the opposite bank are the remains of ancient walls and parapets, called Killa K&, but pointing out an ancient burial-place. This eminence in composition is the same with the Si6h Koh, of which it is obviously the termination, and sinks beneath a low series of sandstone and conglomerate elevations, which stretch north of the river the whole extent of the plain of Jeliilabiid, resting upon Koh Kergah, and filling up the space between the valleys of LGghmb and Khonar, aa Koh Kergah defines their northern limits, so far as it stretches. Having crossed the ferry, the road winds over the point where the con- glomerate rest upon the eminence ; and thence we commanded a fair view of the portion of LGghmh before us, of the villages of ChahhbAgh and Kergah, of the river of Kkbal, and the district of Khacb.

286 MANDAMWAR.

Skirting the conglomerate elevations the greater part of the way, we at length reached Chahbbilgh, where we were entertained by the Hind6 D i w h Jowihir. In the neighbourhood of this village are a vast number of mounds, and beneath the hills behind it to the north we found a small but com- pact tumulus, arranged in the manner of tho= of DarGnta. Chah6rbAgh is the capital of a district, and yields with W a revenue of twenty thousand rupees. I t may contain five hundred houses, has a moderately-supplied bazar, and a manufactory of swords, gun-barrels, and cutlery. The next day, passing the castles of KhGsha K h h , Jab& Kh61, we made Kergah, a small village romantically seat- ed on a rocky eminence at the western extremity of the line of hill generally designated by its name. Immediately west of it, the united rivers of LGgh- miin fall into that of Kiibal. W e crossed the former stream, and went on to Mandarkwsi., where we proposed to halt, but the person we intended to honour with our company was absent. This is a considerable walled-in village, with bazar, and oc- cupies a square of about three hundred and twenty yards. Our course from Killa K f i to Mandarkw6.r had been from east to west ; we now turned towards the north, and the road tracing the line of emi- nences confining the cultivated lands, we left be- hind us in succession the villages of Haidar K h h and KUa Kot, and in the evening reached the walled-in town of Yigari ; to gain which we had to

FASHION OF WOOING. 287

re-cross the stream. At Tirgari unite the rivers of Albhang and AlingQr, the htter bearing the name of Kow, and its source is supposed to be very re- mote, that of the river of Alhhang being nearer. The valley of Alingh, wide and spacious, tends eastward from Tngari, as that of Alishang inclines westward. In Alingk is the castle of MGmjGma, belonging to Miihomed Sh6h Khb, Ghilji, who has also other castles there, as well as in TCzh. In one of his LGghmh castles, called Badiabiid, it would appear, the captive ladies and officers in the power of Miihomed Akbgr K h h , were secured, previous to their transfer to one of his T k z h castles, where late accounts describe them to have been carried. Miihomed Shdh Kh&n is connected by alliances both with Miihomed Akbh Khkn and the Naw&b Jab& KhAn. The former espoused one of his daughters, and the latter, when governor of the Ghiljis, was affianced to his sister, represented to be a handsome and intelligent woman.

Many of the Afghh tribes have a custom in wooing, similar to what in Wales is known as bund- ling-up, and which they term namzkt bbbi. The lover preeents himself at the house of his betrothed with a suitable gift, and in return is allowed to pass the night with her, on the understanding that in- nocent endearment8 are not to be exceeded. The bands of the maiden's perjhas are very tightly secured, and she is enjoined on no account to suffer them to be unloosed. The precaution is not alwaya

288 JABAR KHAN'S NAMWT BAZI VISIT.

effective, and whether from being inconveniently tight or from other causes, the bands are a little relaxed; and, from natural consequences, i t is ne- cessary to precipitate the union of the parties, and not unfrequently the bridegroom when he receives his bride carries home with her his first-born in a bakkowal, or cradle.

The NawBb Jab& K h h went on a namzClt b b i visit to the sister of Mghomed ShBh Kh%n, and wishing to profit by the opportunity more than the lady's modesty permitted, received a severe chastise- ment from her slippers, which so disheartened him that, though often threatening to fetch her to his house, he has never summoned resolution to do so, and when I left the country she was yet pining away in celibacy and solitude at MGmjGma

W e found an Afghh friend a t Alhhang, and accompanied him to his village of Pashai, about three quarters of a mile beyond it. The following morning we repaired on a visit to the z i h t , or shrine of M6tar L h Siihib, about two miles distant from our village. In our transit we had to cross the river of Alishang, which, like its neighbour of Alingh, while not deep, unless at particular seasons, has a rapid current, and its bed so full of loose boulders that it is always dangerous to cross. No year elapses that many casualties are not occasioned by these rivers, and while we were here, and within our observation, a fatal accident happened. A man crossing on horseback was drowned, the animal

CELEBRATED ZIARAT. 289

having lost hia footing and hllen. I waa surprised, for there was not so ,much as a foot and a half of water, but I was given to understand that a man who falls ia lost. Having gained the eminences edging the cultivated lande, their summits covered with ancient sepulchral vestiges, we soon reached, in a hollow, the celebrated z i h t . I inspected it,

ZIABAT METAB LAM.

and my companions strove to propitiate the favour of the holy 'personage supposed to be interred here. There is no very pompous or extensive establish- ment, yet the place is kept clean, and in a certain degree of order. It is regularly visited every JGma by the people of the neighbourhood, and in the

VOL. rn. U

spring mElns, or fairs, are held here. It is consi- dered that the fertility of the cultivated lands is due to the possession of the grave of so distinguished a patriarch, and whoever is buried within the pre- cincts of th i holy place is deemed secure of para- dise ; hence many noble families choose to send their dead here, aa did Fati Mhhomed K h h of Khonar, and the Sirdk Saiyad MGhomed K h h of Hasht- nag&, besides many others; and the contributions of such people, no doubt, mainly support the humble establishment. The tomb, one of those of extra- ordiaary dimensions, which has been assigned to the father of Noah, is but hdf of the length of that ascribed, with equal propriety, to the patriarch Lot, being sixteen yards only in length from north to south, while its breadth is about two yards and a half. In height it stands about five feet; and covered over with cement, is painted throughout in imitation of brick-work. Palls of cloth and silk are duly spread over it. Wilford had learned in some manner that the grave waa provided with a small door beneath, conducting into a vault where the corpse of the patriarch, in excellent preserva- tion, was to be seen in a sitting posture, now the favourite one of the natives of India. Whether he believed such to be the case, or wished others to believe so, I cannot tell, yet the gravity with which he repeats the tale is wonderful. I need scarcely add, that there is no such door beneath the grave, nor any such vault, and those who would

NATIVE TRADITIONS. 291

wish to see the good old patriarch Lamech, sitting - cross-legged, would be disappointed if they came to LGghmib in search of him. The traditions now current in the county vary in some meaaure from those related to Wilford, as indeed they differ in themselves. Some consider M6tar L h to have been the brother of NohIiikhi Siihib, another cele- brated saint, or deified hero, who with nine liikhq or nine hundred thousand men, waged war against the infidels. The former died here, and the latter in the KAfr country, where his z i h t is held in high veneration, although, of course, inaccessible to&& homedans.

It is universally believed that the KBfrs, stealth- l

ily and by night, visit the z i h t of MCtar L h Siihib. Another story relates, that when S G l h

I MiihmGd first entered LGghmln, M6tar L h a p peared to him in a dream, and informed him that his remains were interred in the country, and no honour was paid t o the spot, from its bzing un- known. The apparition, farther, good-naturedly in- structed him as to the manner in which the locality was to be detected. In pursuance of the lessois h e had received, the sd1tA.n mounted a camel, al- lowing the animal to go whithersoever he pleased, and he waa finally brought to the spot where the z i h t 'now is. The sGltb, alighting, thrust his lance- into the grouid, whence blood instantly is- sued. The miracle convinced the prince of the' verity of the dream, and of the facts disclosed by

u 2

292 ANCIENT VESTIGES.

it, and the eacred place became, in consequence, the object of his care and munificence. Very many of the shrines in LGghmh are of the connexions of Mktar Liim; and his grave being once found it became eaiy to discover the graves of his relatives. They are all of extraordinary dimensions. On our return to Pashai we examined the several z i h t s at the vilIages in our road, and found fragmente of sculp tured white marbIe in more thui one of them. There was, no doubt, at a11 times a town of more or less inlportance at t.his point, and the old burial- places were those vestiges we observed on the emi- nences contiguous. Many relics, as coins, &c., are occasionally found ; but they create no wonder, for in what part of the country are they not found in similar situations ? Our next excursion from Pashai was to Ahhang, and to the castle of Alliidgd Khh, .

somewhat beyond it. W e carefully investigated the valley, now diminishing in compass as it neared' the hill; on either side, that no tope or important structure might escape our scrutiny, and we found none, although numerous caves and tumuli every- where are common. None of the caves, however, occur in number or groups, ao that we might infer they related to a place of former consequence ; the contrary deduction might be authorized.

The northern limit of the valley is prominently marked by the high mountain Koh Karinj, ex- tending from east to west along its entire length; and round whose respective extremities the rive&

ALISHANG. 293

of Alishang and Alingb wind. This mountain, while wow sometimes partially coven its summits, is without the limit of perpetual congelation, and is distinguished by its vegetable, as well aa animal productions. The vine flouyishes on it, and monkeys rove over its sides. I have constantly heard of an inscription, said to exist at some part of the hill, but could never find any one who could point it out.

On the northern side of Koh Karinj commence the seats of the Siiiposh Khfm, who are accustom- ed to roam over the hill; therefore when parties visit it, as they sometimes do, on excursions of hunting or pleasure, i t is necessary that they go in number, and prepared for the chances of a hostile encounter. Alishang is a small walled-in town, of about four hundred houses, but haa nothing remarkable in its appearance, or any tokens to denote it an ancient site of consequence. The con- tracted valley, indeed, on either side, has abundance of mounds, and in the sides of the encircling emi- nences are caves, but, as we have so frequently observed, such vestiges are too common to demand especial notice, unless they have in themselves something peculiar or extraordinary. The empior Baber mentions the place under the same denomi- nation i t bears at present ; and he judged it neces- sary to put the refractory malek to death. The actual inhabitants are reputed for their quarrel- some propensities, and there is a proverb, or saying, current in Luglimiin, referring to the two towns

294 MALEK OSMAN.

of ChahhbAgh and Alishang, or rather to the man- ners of those who inhabit them, which runs :-

ChahkGgh, ding, dhg ; Aliehang, jang, jang.

W e followed the valley beyond the castle of Allddiid K h h until it might be said to cease, and to the point where the road strikes off towards the north for Nadjil, said to be eight c o w or twelve miles, distant, when we returned. Nadjil is held by people now called Tiijikq but were recently

'

Kkfre, and who, while professing Miihomedanism, preserve, in great measure, their pristine manners and customs. They pay revenue to the governor of LGghmh. Their malek, Osmh, from his long standing and experience, enjoys a reputation out of his retired valley. He boasts of descent, not exactly from Alexander the Great, but from Amir TaimGr; and when rallied upon the subject, and asked how so diminutive a being can lay claim to so proud an origin, replies, that he has only to - put out one of his eyes, and lame one of his legs, and he would become TaimGr himself. The tradi- ti6n goes, that TaimGr procured a wife in this country. It is-curious to find, on reference to the history of this monarch, not a confirmation of the tradition, but a circumstantial detail of his visit to this part of the world.

Baber notes, that in' his time swine were plentiful in Lfighmkn. In these days there are .none, the

RUBIES. 296

entire conversion of its inhabitants having effected the extinction of the unclean race. The natives of Nadjfl fatten capons, which are sent as presents and luxuries to their friends. About eight miles south-west of AKshang is a place called SGloh Rib& Kot, where are two or three modem caatles and, it is said, some ancient vestiges. From a spring there, it is also asserted that fragments of rubies are ejected, and that parcels of them have been collected and sold to the pe&i or drug-com- pounders, at Kibal as medicaments. The opposite valley to Alishang, that of Alingiir, is much more spacious and of greater length. I t is inhabited chiefly by A f g h h , Ghiljis, Arrokfs, and Niihis; is amply provided with castles, but has no consider- able village. In one of its southern valleys, the dara Nibf, very many of the usual sepulchral indications are to be found ; and the discovery of treasure there when the nawAb held the government of the Ghiljis, led to the loss of many lives. The revenue of Liighmh amounts to two hundred and thirty thousand rupees; and as the AfghiZns contribute one hundred and sixty thousand, it may be judged how much of the land is in their possession; as. . a great part of the Tajik revenue is derived from the towns. and villages in which t-hey nearly ex- clusively reside. As is customary throughout the Kiibal territories, ihe Afghbs and Tiijiks have their aeparate h&ame, or governors, and the latter are dependent 011 the government of Jeldabsd. It

is computed that there are one hundred thouecmd jerribs of cultivated land in the valley of LGghmb, exclusive of twenty thousand in Khach, or the nar- row slip of land between the course of the KBbal river and the SMh Koh range.

The lands are very productive, and the agricvltu- rists are esteemed expert. Two general crops are obtained in the year, as in Ningrahk and Peshiiwer, the Rabbi and Kharif, the first of barley and wheat, the latter of rice, sugar-cane, and cotton. The arti- ficial grasses are extensively grown, and warrma, a species of indigo-plant, is reared. Formerly the ex- tract was made, as neglected vats and reservoirs in the earth at one or two places testify; at preeent the leaves of the plant are dried as tobacco leaves, and the pulverized mass ie sold to the dyers, who use the infusion. I observed with pleasure the fire- fly enlivening the darkness of the nights. I had pre- viously seen an occasional one at Darbnta: here they were numerous, and in groups. In some of the canals the eel is found, called m&-mihi, or the snake-fish ; i t is matter of dispute whether the am- biguous animal is or not lawful food. The heat is very oppressive in LGghmBn until the month of September, when the weather becomes temperate, and the winter is delightful. The great amount of land given over to the cultivation of rice, by being inundated until the grain matures, throws out very noxious exhalations before the harvest, and to walk

SKILFUL AGRICULTURISTS. 297

amongst the fields is very unpleasant, but the same may be said of all rice-countries.

The Tijiks of Lhghmh speak a dialect called .

by themselves and their neighbours LGghmS, but which, I presume, to be nearly the same as the Pashai, the Kohisthi of Dara Nh, and the dialect of the Sdposh Kilfm. They' also speak Persian. They are industrious, and remarkably neat culti- vators of the land. The ridges between the several plots of soil are formed very precisely, the fields are weeded, and altogether are so tended as I have nowhere else witneseed. They are partial to drill- husbandry, and transplant all their rice-plants, and receive the benefit of their skill and labour in overflowing crops. They are esteemed a very cun- ning and litigious people, and, according to their

' neighbours, their agricultural proficiency need not be wondered at, considering to whom they are in- debted for it. On which matter they have the fol- lowing amusing story : -

In times of yore, ere the natives were acquainted with the arts of husbandry, the shaitb, or devil, appeared amongst them, and winning their confi- dence, recommended them to sow their lands. They consented, it being brther agreed that the devil was to be a sherik, or partner, with them. The lands were accordingly sown with turnips, carrots, beet, onions, and such vegetables whose value consists in the roots. When the crops were

I

298 AMUSING STORY.

mature the shaith appeared, and generously asked the assembled agriculturists if they would receive for their share what was above-ground or what was below. Admiring the vivid green hue of the tops, they unanimously replied, that they would accept what was above ground. They were directed to remove their portion, when the devil and his attendants dug up the pots, and carried them away. The next year he again came, and entered into partnership. The lands were now sown with wheat and other grains, whose value lies in their seed-spikes. In due time, aa the crops had ripened, he convened the husbandmen, put- ting the same question to them as he did the preceding year. R,eaolved not to be deceived as before, they chose for their share what waa below ground ; on which the devil immediately set to work and collected the harvest, leaving them to dig up the worthles~ roots. Having experienced that they were not a match for the devil, they grew weary of his friendship; and it fortunately turned out that on departing with his wheat he took the road from LGghmiIn to Bhikiib, which is pro- verbially intricate, and where he lost his road, and has never been heard of or seen since. The por- tion of the road to this day retains the name of S h d t h GGm, or the place where the devil lost his way.

Between it and LfighmAn is a locality called

AKBAR KHAN'S DISASTER. 299

Biidpash, remarkable for the current of air which constantly drives there. In my time, ~ i ihomed Akbiir Khan, with his troops, returning from a foray on the Siihibzlida Uzbfns, was caught in a wind-tempest at the place, and he and they were as nearly blown away as the devil had been be- fore them. The force was overwhelmed in the elemental strife, and broken up. Several persons perished, with their horses. Many were found afterwards, and slain by the SaibzAda Uzbins.

From Pashai I made one long march to DarGnta, and thence the next day paseed on to Titang. Be- sides the trips and excursions I have noted in this work, I had during this year thoroughly explored the valley of Jel&lab6d, abounding in interesting monuments, as tumuli, mounds, caves, &c.

Having turned my attention to the side of Kaba, before finally leaving the lower countries, I made yet another short excursion to Miirkhi Kh61, at the foot of the SaEd Koh, to ascertain if it were true, aa affirmed by rumour, that a tope existed there. I made one march from Titang, passing through Nimla, and reached the place by evening, where I was civilly received by @ malek, whose house was immediately adjacent to the monument. H e was very willing that I ~hould examine i t ; and I have ever since been much chagrined that I did not at the time do so, as this is one of the objects which, when in my power, I neglected, while subsequent events

300 TOPE OF MUHKHI KHEL.

prevented my again giving it my personal atten- tion. The monument was in style of construction, and as regards appearance, the miniature type of the superior tope at Hidda ; I therefore had little doubt as to its age ; but I had hoped, from the nature of its relics, if it fortunately contained any, to have been enabled to have speculated upon the precise charac- ter of the two structures, which the costly and di- versified deposits obtained from the Hidda monu- ment scarcely permitted. I had a strong impression that the latter edifice might be due to one of those princes whose coins we possess, and which we call Indo-Saasanian, and my visit to MGrkhi KhEl tended to confirm me in my conceit.

That the spot had been anciently appropriated to the reception of the dead of some peculiar race or sect, was sufficiently intelligibIe from the surprising quantities of human bones strewing the surface in certain places. These were in such number that the walls separating the several plots of soil were formed of t-hem. To answer this purpose they were, of course, entire, and i t was impossible to imagine that they had ever been subjected to the action of fire. They might, indeed, have been interred ; and it was necessary to suppose so, or to conjecture that at Mhrkhi Kh61 we had fallen upon a spot where the old Guebre inhabitants of the country deposited their corpses. I waa inclined to the latter opinion, because some fifteen or sixteen copper coins I pro-

NOKAR KHEL. 301

cured here, picked up amongst the bone localities, were all Indo-Sassanian. When I reflected for the moment that the monies might or might not be as essential a provision to a Guebre corpse as to one which was destined to cremation, another fact well explained their presence.

At Nokar KhCI, about three miles north, or lower down on the plain, entire skeletons are and have been frequently found. Arouled their ancle-bones were originally tied trinkets, coins, or tokens of some kind ; of which the present inhabitants are so aware that upon detecting a new subject they never fsil minutely to examine its lower extremi- ties, and are generally rewarded by some trifle; sometimes they obtain articles of value. In them days Miirkhi KhGl is a delightful locality, com- prising the two sides of a spacious glen, down which flows a fine rivulet. There is a village called by that name, of abont fifty houses, and several small hamlets, castles, and towers, together forming an aggregate of nearly three hundred houses. My friend, the malek, told me that there were about one hundred vineyards. Although the tempera- ture is low, they have two harvests, one of wheat in the epring, and another of g a l and jG& in the au- tumn. The latter is so productive, that I was assured a c h h k and half of seed yielded in return a kharwk of grain. About two miles east of Miirkhi KMl, also at the foot of the hills, is Zoh,

hmed for the multitude of its vineyards and or- chards ; west of it is Miim6 KhCI, where resides ML Afzil Khhy who I have before had occasion to men- tion. MGrkhi Kh6l is, moreover, situated at a point where a road leads over the SaGd Koh range to the Jiiji county.

During my stay here--and the spot had so many attractions that I remained three days-I saw many of the Jiijis, who seemed to make the house and tower of my malek their serG. They were a shade more rude in manners than the people on the northern skirts of the SaEd Koh, and these are not very refined. Their dress is peculiar, a kind of cap being used in place of the lGnghi, or turban, and their pantaloons fitting closely to the legs, while the lower portions are highly ornamented with needle- 1 work. An intelligent youth, NasrGlah, who knew more about his own country, or had a better way of communicating his knowledge than any other of his countrymen I conversed with, after having satis- fied my inquiries, demanded in return, a tiivh, or written charm, to soften the hearts of GG1 K h h and his wife Tanai, who objected to give him their daughter, his kanghAl, or sweetheart, with the musi- cal name of GGlsirqma

The subordinate hills of the SaGd Koh are in khe neighbourhood of Murkhi KhEl interesting, as containing steatite, prase, and other magnesian minerals, while they are clothed with forests of

pin+trees. From all the accounts I gathered, this celebrated range has an abrupt descent upon the prains of the opposite province of KhGram. On our return we came down upon Nokar KhGl, near which is a tumulua, of large dimensions. The people of the vicinity hearing of the operations carried on upon the topes and tumuli near Je- liilabiid, considered it might be profitable to atker- tain the contenta of the edifice in question, and partiee, in turns, commenced their labours at the summit. In four or five days they grew discouraged, and desisted.

From Nokar Kh6l we passed on to Nimla, where, the evening being far advanced, we halted for the night. The next morning we crossed the undu- lating country to Btilla Biigh, and fording the SGrkh RGd, again reached TLtang, having now nothing far- ther to do than to make the best of our way to Kgbal. . Accordingly we started, having as escort AbdGlah, brother of the malek at Jigdillik, from which place we took the route of HIra Manzi, lead- ing over a very high hill, but the road good, so that it is not requisite to diemount, and came down di- rectly into the valley of Tkzk. Here we did not halt, but for a few minutes ; on resuming our road, we crossed the Haft Kotal, and traversing the table- space beyond, eventually reached Terikki, where we passed the night with some Ahmed Zai Ghiljie, who dwell in tents t.here. Here were the remains of a

304 ARRIVAL AT KABAL.

Chaghatai castle, and the fragments of marly rock everywhere strewing the surface of the soil were full of fossilized shells. In the morning we passed, in the distance to our left, the village of KhGrd

1 Kgibal, and crossed the range which separated us from the Kkbal valley, descending upon the tope and village of Kamari. Hence we struck across the plain, and reached in safety my old quarters in the BQla Hi&.

CHAPTER XIII.

Doet MBhomed K h s s intention to assume royalty. -Views and opinions of pa r t i e s43 t i ln MBhomed KhMs departure.-Day of inauguration. - Ceremony. - Exhortations.-Remarks of his subjects.-Dost Mtihomed Khan's demeanour.-Hie justification. -Preparations for the war.-The khiln mrilla's dexterity.-Plun- der of the Hind& - Mihomed Osmiin KMn's address. - Doet MQhomed KhAn's intentions. - Extortion from MBhomedans.- Death of Sabz All.-Amount of exactions.-March of troops.- HAj5 Khb's departure.-State of the seaam.-Mirza U&.- Mhhomed K61i Khh-Progress to Jelbb4d.-Robh at S6h BQb4 -Jigdillii.-Necessity of Mdhomed K611 KhPn. - Gan- dimak. - DarGnta - Death of NQib YC Mdhomed. -Letters from Liidiha - Equivocal nature of employment. - Incivility of the naw&b.-Saiyad Keramat Ali's departure.-His tactics.- Hie intentions.-His assault on Ranjit Singh. - Delicate dutim - Evils of Saiyad K e m t Ali's conduct. - Afghh notions of official etiquette.

AT KBbal the public mind was much occupied by the preparations making for the announced crusade againit the Sikhs, and by the understood intention of Dost Mihomed K h h to assume the dignity of pldshiih. HAji Khan, who, previous to his departure from Kbbal, proposed this step, now on his return again recommended it, as did M'ma . . Sami K h h , and others. The relatives of the sirdb 1.

VOL. 111. X

306 DAY OF INAUGURATION FIXED.

were unanimously opposed to it, urging, that i t was unbecoming and impolitic ; but since the deaths of A& M a o m e d K h b , and Miihomed R6him K h h the Amin-a-MGlkh, there were none amongst them to whose opinions he judged it necessary to pay de- ference. It was therefore decided upon, and the day for the ceremony of inauguration fixed. S G l t h Miihomed KhAn, with his brother, Pir Miihomed K h h , were living a t Kiibal, on no very friendly terms with Dost Mihomed KhAn. The latter omit- ted no opportunity, by taunt or sarcasm, to annoy SSlltb Mihomed KhAn ; he possessed himself of his guns, muskets, and other military munitions, which were surrendered because i t was known that, other- wise, they would have been forcibly taken. The two brothers, notwithstanding many defections happened amongst their followers, still maintained a large proportion of troops, and S G l t h MBhomed K h h was willing, in concert with his friends, to have drawn the sword and braved the chances of a struggle with his brother. On one occasion he actually left the city and proceeded to the Afsh6.r castles, but admittance waa refused to him. Had he been received he would have displayed his standard, and been joined by those in his inter& or in the plot, and KBbali for a few days, whoever had been the victor, might have exhibited, as of old, instructive ecenes of tumult. Now that the inauguration of Dost MQhomed K h b waa about to take place, S G l t h Mghomed-Khh did not choose

CEREMONY. 307

either to assist or to be present at the ceremony. He therefore obtained permission to proceed to Biijor, to induce M'u Alam K h h to co-operate in the warfare against the Sikhs, and left KBbal, having obtained a sum of money from Dost Mtihomed K B h for his expenses. The day at length arrived when the chief of Kkbal proposed to elevate him- self above his brothere, by the assumption of a new title, and superior degree of rank. It wba ushered in with no expressions of joy, and there were na discharges of artillery to announce to the inhabi- tants of the city that their chief was about to in. vest himaelf with regal authority. Towards even- ing, Do& MMomed K h h , leaving the S l l a Hissib, proceeded to the Id G&, near Sibh Sang, where many, but not all, of his relatives and chiefs at- tended, with the eldest son of = Wais. The latter officiated as primate ; and repeating prayers, placed two or three bhdes of grass in the turban of Dosf Mghomed K h h , proclaiming him PiidshBh, with the title of Amir a1 Momanin, or commander of the faithful. Then, turning to the crowde mound, and alluding to the holy war the amir intended to wage with the infldele, he in&rmed them, it was the duty of every MGdmkn, by voluntary contribution; to assist in the promotion of so righteous a cause to the extent of hie power. Abdfil Samad matter- ed a few rupees amongat the crowd, which then began to disperse, the amir's relatives, and other chiefs, taking the mad to the city by the Derwka

x 2

- 308 DARBAR RULES.

Lahori, while he, and some half a dozen particu- lars, returned to the Bala Hiss& by the road he went. There were immense crowds collected from the city, both of Mhhomedans and HindGs, proba- bly in expectation of witnessing some display of pomp and ceremony, and they returned to their homes disappointed, as there really was little to be seen. ..

I was sitting on the summit of a small emi- nence, called Tappa KhAk Balkh, within gun-shot of the Derwka Shah ShChid, as the newly-created amir passed along the road, separated from the tappa by the breadth of a cultivated field. Some of his horsemen galloping over it, he cried out to them, not to ride over the raiyat's grain. One of those near me observed, " Do you hear the scoun- drel ? How soon he evinces solicitude about hie raiyats." Another p a y , of six or seven persons, broke up as he came near, saying one to the other that he was a bacha Khballi, or lad of Kibal, and if he saw them sitting together he would fancy that each of them had a bottle of wine under his cloak. For some days after this event the darbslr was frequently the scene of much mirth, if not of buffoonery. I t had hrmerly been the custom in addressing the chief to call him Sird&, it now became fit that he should be styled A& Siihib, and it was settled that any one who should be guilty of a lapm lingua should forfeit a rupee. The people who recommended Dost Miihomed

THE AMIR'S DEMEANOUR. 309

K h h to proclaim himself pirdshiih, it was sup- posed, did so under the idea that he would not, a slave to etiquette, interest himself so much in the management of afbirs, leaving a little more to their discretion. I n this they were grievously dis- appointed, for not only did his plainness of manner and easiness of access continue as'before, but he seemed to give more personal attention to business than ever. Iwpecting some new gun-aarriages, made under orders of Abd61 Samad, he inquired for the wood and nails of the old ones. AbdGl Stunad sub- mitted that it was derogatory in a p6dshAh to ask about such trifles. Tbe amir told him that he was altogether mistaken, for it behoved him to look after them as they would come into use. If the amh himself had any reaeons for putting on a . ~ u - perior title beyond the petty ones of mortifying his relatives, and gratifying at a costless rate his own vanity, they may be found in the opinions held by Afghhs in general, that in combats, whether for political or religious ends, i t is becoming to fight under the standard of a sovereign, as in that case the reward of martyrdom is certainly secured to the slain. It is also agreeable to Afghlin ideas, that an individual who has discomfited a piidshilh, as Dost MQhomed K h h had done Shkh Siijah a1 MGlkh, should himself assume the dignity he is supposed fairly to have won. It was, moreover, alleged by his supporten, that he merely revived the pra- tensions and claims of the B h k Zai family, 8a set

310 THE AMIR's JUSTIFICATION.

forth by his ancestor, Hiiji Jams, who proclaimed bimself p a h a , and struck coin, previous to the EC-

knowledgment of the Sad6 Zai family, in the person of Ahmed Shiih ; and, it was asserted, that the claims of the B W Zaie by lying dormant had not become superseded. The more cogent of the arguments advanced by his fiends, however, was the neces- sity of the moment. As for Dost Mfiomed K h h , he said, and always afterwards insisted, that HAji Khan, M'ma Sami, the khib mblla, with the whole horde of miillas, and of the religious classes, forced him to take up the title. There was an amusing contention amongst the ingenious m'reaa to pro- vide fit mottoes for the ofBcial seal of the amir, and for the new rupee it was intended to strike. I n both instances Mhza Sami K h b bore the palm from hie competitors. While these proceed- ings were in train, the important conflict before them waa not lost sight of by the am& and his friends. They began seriously to think on the means of prosecuting it, and bow and where to obtain money engrossed d l their attention. It may have been hoped that voluntary contribu- tions would have spared the amir the trouble and odium of making extortions, but it wss clear that, however the Mihomedans of Kkbal were at- taehed to their religion, they were quite as partial to their gold, and no one thought of offering it in support of the great cause of which the &mir avowed himself the champion.

KHAN MULLA'S DEXTERITY. 311

With respect to the HindGs, the k h h mGlla's sagacity discovered a sacred text admirably adapted to their case, as well as to the circumstances of the amir. It set forth, that i t was lawful to seize the wealth of infidels, provided the wealth so seized was employed in repelling the aggressions of in- fidels. Now, as Ranjit Singh had clandestinely acquired Peshiiwer during the absence of the am'u at Khdahfir, and to recover Peshdwer was the object of the amir's present expedition, i t was clear that Ranjit Singh was the aggressor; and in engaging in a defensive war against the infidel, i t became obviously consistent with divine sanction that the amir should supply his necessities from the funds of his HindG subjects. Had the amir possessed a single doubt of conscience it must have been allayed by the sound deductions of the khAn mGlla The HindG shikefiris, or bankers of the city, were sent for, and being informed they were prisoners until they had arranged to con- tribute three liikhs of rupees, were made over to the custody of Haji K h b . Officers were des- patched over all parts of the country in search of HindGs, and to secure those who had wealth. Shamsodin K h b waa enjoined to look after those of G h m d ; and Mdhomed Akbar KhAn zealously fulfilled his instructions regarding those of the pro- vinoe of JelLlabiid. Many fell into the hands of their pursuers, many contrived to hide themselves, but the houees and visible property of all were

312 PLUNDER OF TEE HINDUS.

plundered throughout the county. In the city only €he principal suffered. The petty s i r d h and jkhirdiirs imitated the salutary example eet them by the amir. Hkji K h h by his agents despoiled the HindGs of ChiihG BAgh of LGghmh; and MBhomed O s m h K h h repaired to BQla Bkh , where he seized all the Hindbs, having dexterously induced them, by letters assuring them of pro- tection, to remain in their houses until he arrived. Subsequently, when the amh passed BQla BBLgh in his way eastward, he inquired of Miihomed Osmh Khan how much money he bad procured for him from his HindGs. The reply wae, none, .

as they had given him the slip, and secreted them- selves under the SaGd Koh.

Many times afterwards the amir would ask about the HindGs of Biilla Bigh, and MBhomed Osmdn K h h as constantly averred he knew no- thing of them. In course of time, it proved that they had, all the while, been detained in close custody at BQla Bigh; and when they were dig- covered and produced before the amir, it was lamentable to witness the trim in which they a p peared. The amir could not get any of the money taken from these particular HindGs by Miihomed Osmh Khan, but he compelled him to give them bills for the amount, and soothed them by the hopes of having the sums taken from them repaid. The hunting over the county for HindGs con- tinued long after snow had fsllen, and when the

COMPULSORY LOANS. . 313

hiding-places of any of them were brought to light messengers were instantly despatched to seize the fugitives. The ShikGpGrh did not long re- main in durance; sensible they had no hope to escape the demands made upon them, they tender- ed a smaller amount, and after ,some debate, in which Hiiji k h h professed himself their friend, a sum a little beyond two Iiikhs of rupees was accepted from them, for which the ainir gave them his bonds for repayment. I t must be noted, that whatever monies were taken on this occasion may rather be considered as compulsory loans than as absolute extortions, it being the intention, if affairs prospered, to repay them. The amir walk- ed in the footsteps of his profligate brother, Fati K h b , who; notorious for the unscrupulous manner in which he replenished his coffers, and met his pecuniary exigencies, was also as celebrated for the punctuality with which he repaid the sums he forcibly borrowed, whenever able to do so; whence, although as unprincipled a man as per- .

haps ever lived, he ultimately acquired the honour- able reputation of being a " dhib itawiih," or a man of his word, and trustworthy. The financial operations of the amh were not confined to his Hind6 subjects, but included within their compaas' the more opulent of the MBhomedan merchants, aa well as many individuals politically suspected, or obnoxious. Sabz Ali, a merchant, from whom thirty thousand rupees were asked, expired under

314 DEATH OF SABZ ALI.

the tortures applied to him, at which the amir expressed, and probably in truth, much regret, as he did not desire the death of the man, but hie money. He was not well pleased, however, that the accident should set aside his claim, and dealing with the conjuncture in the best way he could, compelled the relatives of the unfortunate man to ransom his corpse. Neither did the amir on this occasion spare his own wives. From eome of them he obtained jewels to a considerable amount ; and his mode of treatment with these fair subjects varied according to their dispositions. From the timid, a slight menace, or peremptory command would be sufficient; for others, his v o w to abstain from conjugal intercourse until his de- mands were satisfied, in the end proved successful. Besides all these various means, he levied two years' jezia, or capitation-tax, on the HindGe throughout the country, and anticipated the re- ceipt of a year's revenue on the town duties of Khbal. It was supposed that he had made ex- traordinary collections to the amount of nearly five 1;ikhs of rupees, and having expended two liikhe in unavoidable expenses, and in marching his army from Kiibal, took with him into the field funde to the amount of three liikhs of rupees. The troops had been for some time, in succession, des- patched to Jeldabiid, and in the latter end of February the amh followed them, leaving Mima

HAJI KHAN'S DEPARTURE. 315

Sami K h h , and the Nawkb Jab& Khh to obtain money on jewels which he had procured from his wives; the mirza to act as agent in negotiating the loan, and the nawkb to act as guarantee that the jewels should not be claimed before the sums advanced on them were paid.

On the 6th of March H&ji KhPn left the BQla Hi& to join the Amir. His departure was sig- nalized by the scattering of copper money amongst the populace, who were loud in the praisea of eakh$, or generoue, Hi j i K h h . On reaching the z i h t Sh& ShGhid, whither the crowd followed him, he halted, and, extending his hands, implored a benediction ; then abruptly saluting the by-stand- ers with one of his best S a l h alikams, cantered off for Bhiit K h a . He was entirely alone, and wrapped in a postin, his people having preceded him.

This season presented a strange but fhvourable contrast to the last. Snow bad fallen in the begin- ning of December, but it had gradually disappeared, and the weather was beautiful and mild. The new year, 1835, commenced most auspiciously, and epring seemed to have taken the plece of winter. During the month of February the flowers of Noh Roz made their appearance, as did swallows; and it wae matter of congratulation that the winter had passed. On the night of the 26th February a smart shower of snow destroyed these expecta- tions, and some cold weather succeeded, but still

316 MWAA UZUR.

not to be compared to the rigour of the preceding year; neither did the snow fall in such quantity as to remain long on the surface.

I had for some time been thinking of proceeding to Jel&labid, and now arranged to go in company with Mirza UzGr, HAji Khan's chief mcretary, and one of my BBmiAn acquaintance. The 7th of March was the day fixed, and when I sent to the mirza to inquire if he was ready to start, he replied that he wanted ten rupees to redeem his cooking- utensils, lodged with one of his creditors. As I had no mind to delay, I sent him the sum required, and presently after he came, and we rode on to BhGt Khiik, and occupied the samhches. The m h had eight or ten small but active nags. It had rained, in a drizzling manner, all the way from KAbal, and, now and then, a flake of snow fell. In the morning the same kind of weather continued, and I wished to move on, but the &a said it was indispensable that he should send a man back to the city for hinna, to dye the tails and hoofs of hie horses, as it was ungenteel to travel with them in a colourless state. We were, therefore, detained this day at the samGches. In the evening we were joined by Mhomed KGli Khln, the only surviving son of the Vaz'u: Fati K h h , who had a party of about forty horse, besides his laden cattle. He occupied a samiich, contiguous to ours. The wea- ther was too threatening to allow us to march, and we were, therefore, against our wills, detained an-

MAHOMED KULI KHAN. 317

other day here. In the evening, with Mirza UzGr, I supped with Mghomed KG1i Khin. I found him a handsome youth, of nineteen or twenty years of age, but with a peculiar cast of features, having a long acquiline nose and pointed chin. He was very intelligent, but, it was easy to perceive, libertine and dissipated. He formerly resided with his uncles at PCshawer, who allowed him twenty thousand ru- pees per annnm. On their expulsion, he came of necessity to Kiibal, where his excesses were not so indulgently viewed by the amir, and he was told, that, to secure favour, he must reform his course of life, and dismiss his evil associates. I suspect these conditions were rather too difficult to be com- plied with, and his contumacy afforded the amh a pretext for behaving very parsimoniously towards his nephew. Mghomed KGli K h h is one of two brothers, the only sons the vazir had, and they were by a celebrated Kinchini, named Biighi, whom he married. Sirbalend Khtln, the elder, is said to have been a promising youth, and met his death acci- dentally in the B&gh S h h at Kiibal, amusing him- self with the jerid, or exercise of the lance. En- deavouring to transfix an apple on the ground, his weapon rebounded and pierced his breast. He lingered a few days and died. W e sat a long time in chat with Mihomed KGli KhPn, and on parting i t was agreed that we should be comp* nions on the road. The next day being fine and clear, we started, and taking the road of Sokhta

318 ROBBERS.

Chanir, we halted on the rivulet below T6dm. Just before reaching our ground we fell in with a party of robbers, but they filed over the hills lead- ing to TCzin. During the night our chokis, or guards, were kept on the pi-Gve, I suppose by these very fellows, but we lost nothing. The fol- lowing morning we proceeded down the valley, and met a large A f g h h kAfila. W e learned that a band of about thirty SQhibzdda Uzbin robbers were stationed at the ziiikt S6h Bib& a little in ad- vance; that they had not ventured to assail the kbfila, the men belonging to i t being Afghhs, and too numerous. W e had scarcely passed these when we met a smaller ka la , also AfghAn, who informed us that they had been attacked, but had preserved their property at the expense of three of their men being wounded. Of this we had ocular evidence in the poor fellows bathed in blood. It waa a sad pity we had not reached five minutes earlier. Mihomed KGli KhBn, M'ma UAr, and myself, with about f i h e n horsemen, soon reached SCh BdbC where we drew up, that the rest of our party might join. W e descried a fellow skulking on the summit of one of the eminences in our h n t , but on our hailing him he decamped. He waa the spy of the robbers, who, no doubt, were in ambush close by ue. W e were too strong to be attacked, and it is never part of the system of these thieves to commit them- selves with horsemen.

Our wholi party assembled, we placed our bag-

gage in front, and ascended the undulating sand- stone eminences intervening between S6h BIibb and BS&&b. W e rested awhile s t the latter place, and then resumed our journey to Jigdillik, where we halted in the garden. W e saw none of the inhabitants here, as they had removed, for the sea- son, or perhaps to escape the visit of troops, to a valley lower down, called Peri Dara (the fairy's vale). I received an intimation a t this place that I should be applied to on the part of Miihomed KGli KhAn for money, as it appeared that the mn of the vaz'u was pennyless; and I had authorized my servant, if such a request were made, without speaking to me, to give, as if from himself, a small sum. G h G l b Ali, the maternal uncle of the young k h h , in due time represented his neceseitiea, and my servant gave ten rupees, which suBced to pro- cure provender, and other little nmsssries they needed. In mentioning thie circumstance I mu& not be thought to convey an imputation on my companion, who, so far from being intrusive, or greedy of the property of another, waa liberal to prodigality. He was destitute as to money, yet still would have given me anythhg of what he poesessed, and I had difficulty to refuse little t h i n e he was continually sending me. From Jigdillik the next day we marched on to Gandamak; and it proved that two sistem of =homed KGli K h b were in the vicinity, one residing permanently at

M h 6 KhCl, with her husband, Nzil KUn,

320 DEATH OF YAR MAEOMED.

the other, a wife of Mihomed Z e m b K h h , tempo- rarily occupying a castle near Gandamak. He had frequently boasted to me on the road that he should be at home on reaching Gandamak. The sister there sent her little boy to his uncle with a pre- sent of fruit, and shortly after came a sheep, with other necessaries. A messenger from M h i Kh6l brought a gentle reproach from the sister there on account of Mihomed K6li not having visited her. The next day, taking leave of the vaz'lr's son and Mirza UzGr for the present, I, with my party, took the road to Bgla BBgh, and passing it, as well aa the nawiib's castle of Titang, we reached DarGnta in the evening. I t waa with much regret that I heard the news of my good friend the NGb Y6.r Miho- med having departed this life but a few days before. He spoke frequently of me in his last sickness, and said 'his ill-fortune detained me at Kiibal, or had I been present I should have given him medicine, and cured him. He was succeeded aa n&b of the Ghiljis by his son, Ghfilbm Rash1 K h h . Before I had left Kiibal I had seen the NawBb J a b h K h h ; and aware that it had been arranged that he should proceed to Bbjor, I had concerted to accompany him, purposing to remain there for some time, and examine the country and its neighbour- hood. The nawBb, having effected his political ob- jects, would of course return. I had sent one of my young men to Titang to see if the nawiib had reached from KBbal, and he brought me a message

EQUIVOCAL EMPLOYMENT. 32 1

that one of that nobleman's khids, just arrived from I Lfidigna, was the bearer of letters for me. This

took me to Thang the next morning, and a letter waa put into my hand from Captain Wade, the political agent at LGdiha, informing me that the government, at his recommendation, had been pleased to appoint me their agent for communi- cating intelligence in these quarters.

Whatever my feelings werson this occasion, it is unnecessary for me to obtrude them on public at-

I tention. I might have supposed it would have been only fair and courteous to have consulted my wishes and views before conferring an appointment which compromised me with the equivocal politics of' the country, and threw a suspicion over my proceed- ings, which did not before attach to them. I might have also lamented that I should be checked in the progress of antiquarian discovery, in which I was en-

I gaged, and I might reflect whether the positive injury I suffered in this respect was compensated by the assurance that his lordship, the governor- general in council, " anticipates that the result of your employment will be alike useful to govern- ment and honourable to yourself."

The messenger who brought the letter for me had delivered a packet to the nawAb, from his son and the persons in his train at LGdiiina. I knew not the nature of their communications, but this nobleman, who had hitherto been so assiduous in his attentions and civility, treated me with such

VOL. 111. Y

322 TACTICS OF RERAMAT ALL

marked rudeness, that I abruptly left him, and with- out taking leave mounted my horse. This was the first fruit of my new appointment; nor was it until some time after his return to KAbal that our inter- course was carried on in the same friendly manner as before. To do the nawAb justice, when he found that he had been deceived, or that he had mis- understood matters, his concessions and apologies were ample.

I have before noticed Saiyad Keramat Ali, and the dilemma from which he was relieved by the death of Amir Mihomed K h h . It appeared that, in consequence of disagreement with Captain Wade, he had requested permission to return to India, which waa granted, and Mohan L&l, the Hind6 mhnshi, and companion of Lieutenant Burnes in his travels, was appointed to succeed him. The saiyad, however, on the return of Dost Mihomed KhAn to KAbal, with the view of maintaining his position until the time fixed for his deprrrture, adopted a new line of tactics, and fell in heartily with all the pro- jects of the politicians of K&bal as to alliances with the British government, while he imputed his mis- deeds relating to the correspondence with ShAh Sfijih a1 MGlkh, to the known wishes of Captain Wade, however they had proved contrary to thoee entertained by the government. Previous to his departure he had procured a document, sealed by a number of persons, calling upon the government to depute an envoy to Kiibal, and that envoy to be

DELICATE DUTIES. ' 323

either Captain Burnes or Captain Conolly ; and when he finally left he vowkd that he would procure the removal of Captain Wade from LGdfha, or be himself sent across the kBla p h i (black water), that is, be transported.

He had also other wrathful intents; in conse- quence of which, when at Lahore, he rejected the presents tendered by Ranjit Singh, and commanded him to desist from his aggressions on the Afgbhs. Finding the M6hk6j6 not perfectly compliant, he stroked his beard, and swore he would play the deuce with him when he got to Calcutta. The old prince, terrified, applied to Captain Wade a t LG- d h for protection against the saiyad.

The first duty I had to discharge was to set the various parties at KBbal right with the political a g e n b n o easy matter--and "to wrrect any misum cept im which the nawiib may be inclined to form from his (the saiyad's) representations r -again a difficult task-for as Captain Wade also wrote, " I could hardly have credited the accounts which I have received of his intrigues since he went to CabGI, bad I not myself acquired an insight into his tmnsactim at that place, both while he was there and since his return, that clearly provea his deceitfd conduct, and the gross subterfuges to which he can have recourse to serve his own mischievous designs. The impositions which he has been practising on the nawlib are, I understand, of the most glaring nature. His removal from CabGl must be regarded as a for-

Y a

324 RERAMAT ALI'S CONDUCT.

tunate event. There is no knowing the extent to which he might have involved the interests of go- vernment had he remained. His sole object while there seems to have been to deceive the Barak Zais into an extravagant belief of his own importance, at the expense, if possible, of the just influence of his immediate superior. He was long ago warned by me not to interfere in the affiirs of the chiefs, who- ever they might be ; that his duty was merely that of a reporter of passing events. Such an interdic- tion was likely to be very intolerable to his in- triguing disposition ; and considering his irritable fiemper, much of his real or affected discontent, ran- cour, and malice, towards every one who haa at all interfered with him, may, no doubt, be ascribed to my detection of his attempts to impose on the ere- dulity of these people." Farther, " The nawkb and all his relatives and retainers, ought now to be con- vinced of their extreme folly and weakness, in trust- ing to tbe specious words and promises of their un- worthy adviser, Keramat Ali. The governor-gene- ral has desired me to inform the nawPb, that he cannot recognize the saiyad as a proper channel of communication, and has not replied, therefore, to the letters of which he was the bearer. I have done so, and will thank you to reiterate the injunc- tion, aa well aa to point out to the nawkb and his family the propriety of confining their correspond- ence to the prescribed channel of the officer charged

OFPICIAL LABOURS. 326

with the conduct of the intercourse existing be- tween the two etatea, and to send copies, as ordered, of all letters that he may desire to send to other quarters."

It will be seen that the commencement of my official labours was under auspicious circumstances. I never took the trouble to ascertain, precisely, what the saiyad had done,-that he had done a little I have shown, and I found that he had bound the nawiib, and many other persons, to support him by oaths on the Kodn. I treated the matter less se- riously than did Captain Wade, and in the course of two or three months, by the assistance of friends, had succeeded to put the nawhb, and others, in a more friendly disposition. An evil, greater in my estimation than the irritation occasioned to Captain Wade, arose from the political lessons given by the saiyad to Dost Miihomed KhAn, and the principal people at KAbal, for he instructed them not as things were, but as he fancied them to be; this was unfortunate, and so was his connexion with the Persian adventurer, AbdGl Samad ; and his errors here were afterwards felt in their effects. I had also no small trouble in inculcating the propriety of compliance with Captain Wade's notions of the eti- quette to be observed in correspondence with him- self and the government ; and I remembered that, in Saiyad Keramat Ali's time, some objections had been made to the mode in which letters were

326 APOHAN NOTIONS OF ETIQUETPE.

despatched from Kiibal, it being insiated they should be put in proper envelopes, and then en- closed in silken bags. This produced some merri- ment in the darbir, where many thought that, as

Afghbs, their letters might reasonably enough be forwarded under felt covens.

CHAPTER XIV.

Attempt to assassinate the Amfr.-His anxiety.-Letter from the governor-general. - Views of the government, and of Captain Wade.- Commencement of communicatione with Persia-Md- homed Hh6n.-Allah YBr K h S s letter.-The Amfr's progreee. - His prayer at Ali B%b.-Prognostications.-Dreams.-hfr. Harlan's mission. - SGltPn MBhomed KhPn's letter.- Pir M6- homed Khan intercepted.-Deputation of the naw&b.-Junction of S12t.h Mihomed KUn. - Khaibar chiefs. -Ranjit S i h ' s movements. - Negotiations. - Truce.-The Amir's cunning.- Rage of Pir MBhomed K b . - Committal of Pir Mihomed Khiin. - Various counsels.-Arrival of Ranjit Singh. - His energy and dispositions. -Mission to the Afghh camp.-Amlr decides on retreat.--Propds to Shltiin Mdhomed Kh6n.-Sikh envoys made over to S61t.h MBhomed Khiln. - Retreat of the Amfr-Amval in Khaibar.Eiiltln M6homed Kh&n's conduct. -Search for SGltAn MQhomed Khh.-Lettm from SGltiln MB- homed K h h . - Disposal of the army. - Return of the Amir to KRbal. - Mfrza Sami K h S e wrath. - Evils of the Amtr's in- judicious policy.

ON our road from Kkbal a courier had informed us of an attempt to weassinate the new amir in the camp at Jeldabiid. The offender proved to be a man once in the service of Fati Miihomed Khih, the father-in-law to the nawhb. Miihomed KGli K h h jwtly observed, that the loss of the amir a t such a crisis would be a great evil. Whatever may have been Dost Miihomed KhWs suspicions as to

328 THE AMIR'S ANXIETY.

tbe inciters of the intended crime, he did not judge fit to express them at this juncture, and the aesassin himself was, I believe, suffered to go unpunished.

At Jeldabbd the amir waa sufficiently employed ; and M'ma Sami Khan drew up p l p s for the dis- position of the army in the conflict which was to take place with the infidel Sikhs. There is little doubt that the amir began to distrust his vaunted power for the expulsion of his foes from Peshiwer by force of arms, and would have been glad, by any fair pretext, to have been enabled to withdraw from the contest, and on this account he anxiously looked for replies to letters he bad addressed to Captain Wade and to the British government. I am not aware of the nature of these letters, but can readily imagine they were numerous enough. I sometimes saw the nawiib, but, under his irritated feelings, to very little profit ; and sometimes I saw Mirza S a d KhAn, who waa civil, but asserted, that until informed by the nawiib he did not know that Saiyad Kemmat Ali's actions were disapproved of by Captain Wade.

While the army was yet at Jeliilabiid a letter was received from the governor-general. It waa opened with expectations h r from realized by the contents. The amir merely smiled, Mirza Sami K h h felt much surprised that no answer had been given to what he collsidered the essential point, affirmed that the liveliest hopes had been enter- trtined, and that the matter was one which could

bave been easily arranged by the British govern- ment. The nawdb was very wrath,-avowed that the government was pleased that the Afghhs should be exterminated ; and his sentiments being re-echoed by his friends about him, I was glad to get away from them.

The governor-general's letter, which would halve been a very good one at another time, had now ar- rived m&ywopos. Subsequently, after the amir's brief and hi t less campaign had terminated, and he had returned to Kiibal, I received a letter from Captain Wade, explanatory of his own views and those of the government at this period, which now there can be no harm to disclose, and that cannot be better done than in the political agent's own words :-

" With regard to the anxiety of the arnh and his brother for the arrival of an answer to their letter, soliciting the mediation of the British go- vernment to settle their quarrel with the Sikhs, the letters which I despatched to them on the 6th of March will have prepared tbese chiefs for the reluctance which is felt by our government to be- come a party in such an affair. I regret the result ai7acereZy, and endeavoured to avoid, by submitting a proposition, which if approved, would in its effects have, in all probability, secured Dost Miihomed Khb's present object, and laid the foundation of an alliance between him and our government bene- .

330 VIEWS OF T I ~ E GOVERNMENT.

ficial to the interests of both parties, without dis- gusting Ranjit Singh or compromising the obliga- tions of friendship due to him. Government, how- ever, has taken a different view of the subject, and it behoves us, therefore, to try and establish by ot lm means that influence in A f g h b i s t h which it is our object to obtain.

" In the letter of the governor-general, which will probably have been shown to you, a plain declara- tion is made to Dost Mtibomed KhAn and his brothers, of the desire of the British government to form a close connexion with them by an inter- change of cxrmmd advantages. They are not likely, at first sight, to discern the benefits which they will msuredly derive, in a political point of view, from an alliance formed on such a basis, and may, in their indignation at the apparent indifference with which our government has regarded their ap- plication for assistance against the Sikhs, think that nothing but a motive purely selJtsh has dictated the counter-proposition which we have offered ; but I need not observe to you, that should Dost b l i homed K h b be diq~osed to encourage our mtensible object, a red advantage may be gained by him, as concerns the future importance and strength of his government, by entering heartily into such a con- nexion with our government as his lordship's letter has indicated.

" I herewith enclose copies of the letters which

ADVICE AND SYMPATHY. 331

I have just addressed both to the nawilb and the amir, which will give you some insight into my sen- timents. It is impossible for me to exert any direct interference with the dispute which is now raging between them and Ranjit Singh, without being authorized to do so by government, but my opinion is, and I have expressed it to AbdGl Ghih KhWs

.

preceptor and his companion, that the a w should use mey endeavour in his pmm to negociate a peace with the Sikhs. H e committed great precipitation in bidding defiance to the Mbhbbj6 at the time he did. If determined on hostility, he should have ascertained befoehami whether there was any person on whose aid or assistance he could depend, instead of declaring war, and finding himself left to pro- secute it with no other resources than his own, when it was too late to retrace his footsteps with credit. Notwithstanding this fatal error, I still anxiously hope that some meam may be devised by Dost Mhomed K h h , who has, on several occa- sions nearly as difficult as the present, given such great proofs of the fertility of his geeius, to ex- tricate himself, without any serious loss of honour,

from his present embarrassing position. I sympa- thise deeply with him, and though I cannot use the authority of government, the obligation I am under ' of cultivating a good understanding' with him and his family will not make me backward in availing my.self of any cpport7cnities which my personal in-

332 VIEWS OF CAPTAIN WADE.

fluence may afford me, and of which I may leg&- ma* take advantage, of restoring an amicable feel- ing between him and his ambitious neighbout.

" I generally concur in the truth of the opinions which you have stated, to justify an exertion of British mediation (to put a stop to the contest which has perhaps ere now endangered the political existence of Dost Mghomed K h b ) , and shall send a copy of the eloquent appeal which you make in his favour to government, with such remarks as appear calculated, in my opinion, to throw light on the proper line of policy which it is our duty to pursue at the present crisis, but I doubt the dis- position of the government to involve itself, ad once, in such direct political alliance aa the amifland hie immediate interests require. The threat of seeking the support of a r i va l power shows that want of foresight for which the Afghkns are proverbial. I f they reflect on their relative situation to the British government, they must see that such a step might prove more destructive of their independence than any which they could possibly take."

It would be contrary to the plan I propose for observance, to comment upon this letter.

The threat alluded to of seeking the support of a r i va l power was, in some measure, attempted at this very time. Miihomed Hussgn, since memm- able as having been one of the agents employed by Dost h1iihomed KhEm, being about to return

COMMUNICATIONS WITH PERSIA. 333

to Persia, his native cbuntry, requested a letter for the shhh. Miihomed HGssCn had for some years resided at K&bal in the Serai Miihomed KhGmi, engaged in traffic, and bearing a most disreputable character. He had become one of the companions of Saiyad Keramat Ali, and lat- terly, since AbdGl Samad had been admitted to the am'lr's confidence, had avowed himself to be a correspondent of AbbL Mirza. I doubted the truth of this statement, and that I was justified in doing so was afterwards evidenced ; for, when in Persia, he never announced in his intercoume with any one that he had been so employed, which he would not have failed to do, if onIy for the purpose of arrogating a little credit to himself. I was not aware of the communication made through Mtihomed H6ss6n at the time : and when I be- came informed of it I also learned that he had proceeded to Bokhh, and, not seeing his way clear into Persia, remained there. Subsequently, it waa again pointed out to me that Miihomed HGssCn had carried letters to the Sh&h of Per- sia; and supposing that those written in the Jeliilab6d camp were designated, I did not pay much attention to the information ; and, still later, when a letter from Allah Y4r K h h at Meshed apprized the amir of Miihomed HGss6n's arrival there, and of his despatch to Tehrh, I suspect- ed i t to be a fabecation, not being aware that MBhomed HGssCn had returned to KBbal, and re-

334 DEVICES OF THE AMIR.

started with fresh credentials. Notwithstanding the marked rudeness of the nawiib to me, when the first letters were given to MLhomed HGssCn, I must do him the justice to state, that he refused to be a party to them, and affirmed that he bad always advocated a connexion with the British government, and would continue to do so. This fact I learned from others, as well as from himself.

On the 6th of April the amIr broke ground from Jelitlabiid, and by easy marches reached Bas- sowal. I t was clear be lingered on the road, awaiting, possibly, some overtures from the and at Ali Biighh he was favoured with a letter from Att.6 Singh, a brother of his former acquaint ance, Jai Singh. There also the festival of Id KhGrbAn was celebrated; and the amir, on the occasion, offered up prayers for success in the im- pending conflict. He exclaimed audibly, of course that he might be heard by those around, that he was a weak fly, about to encounter a huge ele- phant; that, if it pleased God, the fly could over- come the elephant, and he implored God to grant him victory. Neither did he neglect an appeal to the more profane arts of divination, and H& in the camp, skilful prognosticators of events to come, consulted, agreeably to the custom of their county, the blade-bones of sheep. Many, also, were the dreamers of the army; and the inter- pretation of their mysterious visions was neces- sarily made to indicate the elevation of the amir,

and his triumph over his deadly antagonist, Ranjit Singh, variously typified as a serpent, a dragon, or a devil. While such ingenious devices were imagined by the am'ir, or tolerated by him in others, it is just to observe, that the economy of his camp, and his management of the overflowing hosts of Ghk'q were excellent.

It had been understood that Mr. Harlan was - deputed from the Sikh camp on a mission to SGl- t&n M6homed K h h at Biijor ; and, while at B b - sowal, a letter was received from the latter chief, stating the fact of Mr. Harlan's arrival, and that he had been put to death, while his elephanta and property had been made booty. This news created a sensation in the camp, and the multi- tude exulted that by the act S G l h lkXihomed K h b had detached himself from %kh interests. I had the satisfaction to listen to t.he "Alamdillahs !" or God be praised! of the nawkb's dependents, who vociferated that, now the brothers had be- come one, and had wiped away their enmities in Feringhi blood. lkXirza Sami K h b , however, pre- tended to be amazed; it was hard, he said, to believe that SGlth Mihomed K h h had com- mitted so foul an action, yet here was his mes- senger and his letter. The am'u; he said, would have received Mr. Harlan with honour, and have dismissed him in like manner. Whether the letter was really sent by SGltb Miihomed Khkn, or fsbri- cated by M'ma hi K h h , I know not; but a

336 JOINED BY PIR MAHOMED KHAN.

day or two disclosed that Mr. Harlan's reception had been most flattering, and it afterwards turned out that the amir's brother easily fell in with Sikh views. Mr. Harlan, with reference to the part he now played, said he did not deceive Sbl- th Miihomed K h h , but allowed him to deceive himself, and, of course, he reported to his employ- ers that the chief was gained over.

Here also joined IYlr Miihomed K h b ; he had lingered behind at Jeliilab&d, and naw dropped down the river on a float. He probably had in- tended to have passed on to LAlpGra, and to have joined his brother in Biijor; but the amir, anti- cipating, or apprized of his project, had stationed people on the river-bank, who compelled him to bring-to. He had, therefore, no other course than to renew his oaths of fidelity to the amh, and to swear that he renounced brotherhood with Slil- t h Miihomed Khan, should he make arrangements with the %khs without the am'lr's sanction or concurrence. Accompanying Pii Mfiomed K h h were two or three men most obnoxious to the chief of KAbal, and their countenances too plainly manifested their fears, and they were unwilling sojourners in camp.

From B h w a l the nawab was allowed to pro- ceed to Biijor, pledging himself to return with SG1- d n M4homed K h h and the BBjor leviea to Dika, where the amir proposed to halt for a few days.

When the army marched from Bbowal, I re-

DEPARTURE OF MR. HARLAN. 337

turned to Jeliilabbd, where I resided with an old acquaintance, =rza Ag& Jhi. At DAka, the nawAb, with SGltAn Mdhomed K h h and Mr. IIar- Inn, returned to camp. Tbe ex-chief of PeshLwer was attended by his own troops and a respectable force from Bhjor, under orders of Am& Khih, the cousin of Mir Alam K h h , who was too wary to trust himself in the amir's power. Mr. Harlan did not find the amir so facile as his brother, and was upbraided for his interference in matters which could not concern him, as well as for pro- moting dissension between him and S(l l th Mi- homed K h h . Mr. Harlan found it necessary to send the amh a KorAn, and to make many pro- mises; in allusion to which Mirza Sami KhAn, in a letter to Alladiid K h h , the chief of Tik, who had succeeded his late father, Sirwar K h h , remarked, that Mr. Harlan had used many sw&t words, but that he was aware that Feringhb were like trees, full of leaves, but bearing no fruit,- an allusion so happy that he sent a copy of the letter to me, if not for my instruction, possibly for that of the political agent at LGdiBna Mr. Harlan, after witneesing a review of the army at GhAgari, waa, no doubt, glad to receive permis- sion to pass over to the %kh camp, from whence he had come.

I n the passage through the defiles of Khaibar many of the maleks, or petty chiefs of PeshBwer, who had been caressed, and appointed to lucra-

VOL. 111. z

338 A TRUCE EFFECTED.

tive offices by the Sikhs, forsook them, and re- paired to the amh, excusing their defection on the plea of religious zeal. The amh, with his host, finally encamped at ShGkhb, in the plain of Peshhwer, resting on the skirts of the Khaibar hills.

Ranjit Singh, it is supposed, wrw not inclined to believe that the amh would venture to lead his forces into the plain, and, apparently under this belief, although he had left Lahore, seemed to loiter in the country east of the Indus. The tidings that the Afghkns had actually encamped and taken up position at ShGkhBn, made the M& h h i j i accelerate his movements, and he despatched peremptory orders to his sirdArs at Peshdwer to avoid a general action, and await his arrival.

I n consequence of such orders, the Sikhs re- newed negotiations to amuse the amir until the

I Miihiiriijd appeared. The nawAb and one Agii H G d n were diplomatists on the part of the Af- g h b s ; the latter commissioned to watch the con- duct of the former, justly suspected by the amir. A@ HG&n, however, did more, and affirming that he had a complete ascendency over the am'u, received three thousand rupees, promising to pre- vail upon him to return to KAbal.

At length SGltAn Mdhomed K h h proceeded to the Sikh camp, where he remained for some time, and through his instrumentality a truce was agreed upon until the arrival of the Miihlrtijh.

GHAZIS AT!I'ACK THE SIKHS. 339

The ex-chief, it is fair to observe, had proposed perfect reconciliation. to his brother, provided he would affix his seal to a bond, and engage to make over Pesh6wer to him, whether recovered by force of arms or by negotiation. The amir refbed, acknowledging that he intended to give Peshdwer to his own son, M6homed Akbar Khan. SGl th MBhomed K h h then demanded the promise of JelblaMd, which was alike denied. Without hope, therefore, from the just.ice or generosity of his brother, he considered himself free to further his own interests in any mode and in any quarter.

The amir, conscious of the evil likely to arise from the presence of his brother in the hostile camp, in despite of the existing truce, secretly encouraged his Gh&is to attack the Sikhs, dis- honestly hoping thereby to endanger him. Be- tween the Afghh and Sikh armies were nume- rous ravines, and the inequality of surface was favourable to the approaches of the Ghhis, and sheltered them from the fire of artillery, so much dreaded. They made several desultory attacks, and even two rather serious ones upon their infidel ene- mies, and brought some heads into camp, together with plunder from tents. They were probably indebted to the orders of the bfbhbij6, which reduced the Sikhs to the necessity of awaiting assault, and then merely to stand on the defen- sive. IYlr M6homed K h h on these occasions was, or feigned to be, in great agony. He presented

z 2

340 AFGHAN COUNCILS AT VARIANCE.

himself to the amir, and drawing his dagger, threat- ened to plunge i t into hi^ own breast, denouncing the baseness of exciting the Ghk i s to action, with the desire that his brother might be put to death in retaliation. The amir protested that he could not restrain the ardour of his Ghhis, affected to order that they should not violate the truce, and again encouraged them to do so, and to help them- selves to the golden ornaments of the infidels. It was t,he custom daily to send out a karowal, or advanced guard, commanded by one of the princi- pal chiefs; and when i t was Pir Mhhomed K h S s tour of duty the amir made such demonstrations ss engaged the attention of the Sikhs, and ulti- mately committed the karowal in conflict. Pir MQiomed Khbn was a brave soldier, and creditably acquitted himself; but, in receiving the congra- tulations of the amir, he did not forget to inveigh against the atrocity of the scoundrel.

The Afghkn councils were strangely discordant. Mirza Sami Khln constantly advocated battle, and he was supported by the am'rr's eldest son, &I& homed Afzil KhCn, HAji Khln, and others. Hkji K h b consistently proposed a variety of schemes, and wished, with the cavalry of the army, to de- scribe a chirk, or circle, and to intercept the MBh&- r6j& between Atak and PeshLwer. Abd61 Samad professed an irresistible desire to combat, and only demanded that his foe, &I. Avitabile, should be

ARRIVAL OF RANJIT SINGU. 341

given to him, that he might blacken his face, and parade him through the streets of KBbal on a jackass. The nawBb and his party insisted that it was useless to contend against the superiority of the Sikhs, and the amir, whatever his boasts, showed that he felt the same.

There are some who think that, had the amir brought on an engagement, the occasion was not unfavourable, and that it was possible he might have dispersed one or two of the Sikh camps, as, while the sirdam individually would not obey the orders of any one but the Miihikiji, there was a doubt whether, if attacked, they would have assisted each other.

The veteran ruler of Lahore at length appeared in camp, and his presence diffused confidence amongst his troops, and unanimity amongst his s i r d h ~ . Disorder and confusion were converted, as if by magic, into order and regularity, and the energy inspiring the bosom of the chief was communicated to those under his command. An immediate change was directed in the disposition of the army, hitherto dispersed about the village of BGdani. The camp nearest to the Afghbs remained stationary, to dis- guise the contemplated movements, while upon it the rest of the army formed in the shape of a semi- circle, completely enveloping the A f g h h position. The Sikh forces were classed into five camps, their fronts protected by artillery; behind it were sta-

342 MISSION TO AFGHAN CAMP.

tioned the regular infantry, of which thirty-five battalions were present, and again behind them were the various masses of cavalry.

While arranging his troops for attack, the Mih i - rijg deputed, in company with S G l t b Mihomed Khin, FQquir Azzizaldin and Mr. I-Iarlan to the amYs camp, with inst.ructions to prevail upon him to retire, and to bring SGl th Miihomed K h k back with them. While the envoys were still urging their suit the amir became informed that his camp was surrounded, and that but one of two alternatives remained to him, to fight, or to retreat without loss of time. H e was confounded for the moment. H e clearly saw that his enterprise had firiled, and that his vigorous antagonist had deter- mined to bring matters to a prompt issue. To engage had perhaps never been his purpose; he was conscious of his inferiority ; and when he rea- soned, that, by remaining on the ground he a t present occupied he ran the chance of losing his guns, munition, stores, and equipage, when he would be reduced to the level of J a b k K h h , MQhomed Z e m h KhBn, or any other of his relatives, he a t once determined to retire, while the opportunity permitted. Of course he consulted in his dilemma with his confidential minister, Mirza Sami K h h , and with one or other of them originated the inge- nious idea of carrying off with them Ranjit Singh's envoys, Fgquir Azzizaldin and Mr. Harlan. I t was conceited, that the old Sikh chief could scarcely

SIKH ENVOYS MADE OVER. 343

exist without the ftiquir, who officiated as his physician, prepared his drams, and was absolutely necessary to him. I t was hoped that Ranjit Singh would be obliged to cede Peshgwer in exchange for the indispensable fiiquir, or that, at least, a good round sum would be gained as ransom. Re- solved to act upon a suggestion so admirable, i t occurred that a degree of odium might attach to a violation of the respect which amongst Afghhs, as amongst all other nations, is conceded to the persons of envoys. The tact of one or the other proposed a means of obviating this difficulty, as regarded themselves, and it was agreed to criminate SGltAn Miihomed K h h . That s irdb was accord- ingly sent for, and the am&, exchanging oaths on the Korin, informed him of what was meditaed, and expressed his wishes that, as the elchis came to t.he camp in his company, so he should carry them off, when everything they wanted would be obtained. SGltAn Miihomed K h h , who at once perceived that the amir's object was to gain his point at the expense of his own reputation, and irreparably to ruin him in the estimation of the Sikh ruler, feigned ex- ceedingly to approve the plan, promised entire compliance, and took all the oaths on the K o r h required of him, considering them, made under such circumstances, as invalid. The amir summoned the envoys to his presence, and coarsely reproached and reviled them,-foul language with Afghbs being the preliminary step when more violent me*

344 RETREAT OF THE AMIR.

sures are contemplated. He made them over to the charge of SGltln Mtihomed Khin.

Dost MQhomed KMn had too much experience in Afghh camps not to know that an orderly re- treat is almost an impossibility. He did, however, his best to obviate confusion, but could not prevent the greater part of the army bazk from being plundered by his Ghhdi, now become a disorganized mass, and formidable only to their quodarn friends. The regular troops were drawn up in line, while the artilIery and camp-equipage was borne off, and when it had entered the defiles of Khaibar they retrograded and closed upon the rear. It was even- ing when the retreat was effected, and it had be- come dark when the am'lr reached the heights of Ghigari, within the Khaibar hills. There his ears were assailed by the reports of the Sikh salvos, discharged in triumph at his flight, just made known to them. He turned round, and looking towards Peshriwer, uttered an obscene oath, and said, " Ah ! you kafrs, I have taken you in !" referring to the capture of the fhquir and Mr. Harlan, who, as he eupposed, were in custody of SGltBn 316homed K h k in the rear.

The latter sirdh, penetrating the evil intentions of his brother, and seeing an opportunity of recom- mending himself to the favour of Ranjit Singh, in place of carrying off the envoys, escorted them towards their own camp, and having placed them beyond danger, retired to Minchinl, north of the

CONDUCT OF THE AMIR 345

great river, there to await the decisions of the MiihMj&

It should have been explained, that the reasons for making free with the persons of the envoys, a s . advanced by the amir, were, that they should be detained as hostage8 for the fulfilment of the terms they proposed, which were, that the amir should retire, and that half the territory of Peshii- wer should be restored to SGltAn Miihomed K h b . As the amk saw no chance of obtaining the coun- try for himself, he affected to consent to this ar- rangement, but next demanded some ratification, or some proof of the Miihhiij6'8 liberality towards himself', and representing that he had been put to great expense in putting forth the expedition, sug- gested that it would only be considerate to give him a few 16khs of rupees by way of n811-bandi, literally, to pay the charges of shoeing his horses. He protested that he had not come to make war with the Miihkiijii, whom he revered as a father, but to make peace. The Gqufrs promised that the request should ' be considered by the Miihhiijii, and the .amh observed, that the claim was then admitted, and that the elchh should remain with him until i t was adjusted, and until Peshiiwer had been made over to his brother. The fiiquir urged that it was necessary he should return to the MQhiriijA to apprise him that his propositions had been accepted, and of the claim for nlll-bandi now advanced by the amir. The latter replied, i t wa9

346 SULTAN MAHOMED KHAN MISSED.

unnecessary, as all could be done by a short letter. Finally, when the fiiquir wa8 weary of offering argument in vain, and hinted at the indelicacy and impropriety of the step the amir seemed to inti- mate he had decided upon, he was told that the Sikhs were k b , and unlike any other people, aa they were breakers of oaths and treaties, there- fore anything waa fair in dealing with them or with the agenta employed by them, although it would not be fair with other people. The am'lr's march from S h i k h h was continued to Jabarghi, and in the morning he sent to enquire where SGltAn Miihomed K h b waa located, not doubting but that, with his prisoners, he was in camp. The sirdir was not to be found ; still the search was continued until about noon, when a courier was announced from S G l h Maomed K h b . The man produced a letter, addressed to the amir, which commenced with the most violent abuae, and after calling the amir everything that was bad, required that he would instantly dismiss his brother, Pir Mihomed Kl ih , with his nGb, HAji Kh&, and restore all the guns, muskets, and other articles of which the amir had robbed him. Another letter, addressed to Ki Mihomed K h h , informed him that it had come to his (Sirltb. Mihomed Khh's) knowledge that the amir had concerted to blind him, and that to preserve his eyes he had been compelled to retire. The amir and Mirza S a d Khtu were excessively chagrined and mor-

THE AMIR AT KABAL. 347

tified, having, besides the failure of their schemes, been duped by SGltAn Mkhomed K h b , while they were exposed to odium and ridicule. Indeed, many of those who heard the letter read were obliged to retire from the amir's presence that they might indulge in laughter unrestrained.

The amir had been particularly anxious to preserve the army entire, that he might boast of having retreated with honour, but his utmost efforts could not keep it together. I t broke up and dis- persed. H e had wished to have inspected it at DQka, but as this was impomible he purpoaed to assemble i t at Jeldlabid, and despatched a small guard of horse to SGrkh PG1 with orders to turn back any fugitives from the army seeking to reach KBbal. The first strong body that arrived at SGrkh PG1 overpowered the guard, and plundered it of horses, arms, and accoutrements. The amir, in

. disgust, made no farther attempt to restrain the flight of his men, and eventually reached KBbal privately by night. For some three or four days he would admit no one to his presence ; it was supposed that he felt ashamed. Mima Sami K h h in like manner secluded himself, reviled the amir for not having fought as he counselled him, broke his kalam-dhn, or pen-and-ink case, the badge of his office, and vowed that he would have nothing farther to do with state-affairs. That the amfr had acted injudiciously in originating the contest so ingloriously concluded, there can be little doubt.

H e had engaged, without allies or resources, in 8

struggle to which he was unequal, and the conse- quences of his failure proved a fertile source of subsequent embarrassment to him, while he had thrown away the advantages he possessed, and those which he might have derived from his victory over ShAh SGj& a1 MGlkh. He had aleo discover- ed that he could not justly calculate upon the religious ardour of the people, for although large numbers .of Gh6& did join his standard, they were not in the countless myriads he expected, and many of them were from countries independent of his jurisdiction. Having deceived them, as it were, in this expedition, he certainly could not expect that they would attend him on any future oc- casion.

CHAPTER XV.

The Amir's reproaches.-His projecta.-State of KAbal-Intrigues and plots.-Retrenchments.-HBj5 Khbn's conversations. -The NawBb's irresolution. - Overtures from LGdigna. -Their effect a t Klbal. -Results. - Dexterity of Sir John Hobhouse.-Vio- lence of intrigues. - Letter from Captain Wade. - Arrival of Rashid A k h h d d d a . - Proscription lists. -Raahid Akhlindzb- da'e subtlety.-Mirza Semi Khin's retreat.-Precautions of the devoted. -Danger of my situation.-Interviews with the Amir. - Rashid AkhGnUda opposes the Amir's plans. - Useless expostulation of the Amir.-Abddah K h h consigned to plunder. --Seizure and spoil of AbdGlah Khh.-The Amir's repentance. - Restitution of property. - Popular dissatisfaction. -Captain Wade's interference.-Resignation of appointmenkCeeeions by Ranjit Singh to SGlthn MBhomed Khin. - Letters from Peehti- wer.-The Nawib's willingness to be deceived.-Interview with the Amir. -Events of 1836.--Series of intriguee and alarms- The Amir's plans.--Strives to gain over M&omed O m h K h h . --Sudden panic. - HAji K h W s recommendation. - The K h h and hie HindG creditors. - The Amir's financial measures- Movements of the Sikhs and of K b m f i . - Hirji K h W s r e marks on the times. - Departure of PEr Maomed Khan.-His attempted aaeaesination. - Impediments thrown on his retreat. -Letters from India. - Resume dutiee. - Intercourse between KPbal and L6diLa.-Renewed communications with Persia.- Hiiji Ibdhlm. -H&shn Ali. -1vPn Vektavich. - His seizure, release, and despatch from B o k h h -His intentions and asaer- tions. - AbdGl Sarnad's projects. - Hie influence in the Amir's hiram.-The Amir's evaeionlJourney to Ttitang.

As soon as the amir recovered sufficient confi- dence to sit in darbih, there was but one topic

350 STATE OF KABAJ~.

on which he indulged, and that waa the treachery and perfidy of his brothers, and other relatives, who, he said, had betrayed him to the Sfkhs, and would not allow him to fight. H e believed, or affected to believe, that it was essential to the success of his future plans -that they should be removed, to- gether with other obnoxious persons ; and the mode and manner of compassing their degradation or destruction now absorbed his attention. As the business was a serious one, he strove, if not to pro- cure the sanction of, to palliate his proposed mea- sures to his brothers, a t K h d a h k , and they feign- ing to acquiesce in the propriety of all he urged, promised to send Rashid AkhGndzAda to Kibal, a t the due time, to represent themselves, and to assist and countenance him in tlie necessary acts of justice, which be had determined to carry

through. KAbal was in a cruel state of conster- nation, as i t had been ever since the return of the amir; the streets were the theatres of con- stant conflicts and slaughters, of which no one seemed to take notice, and the city appeared on the verge of delapsing into anarchy. The darbk of the amir wss unattended, and the functions of government seemed to be suspended. The chmce is, had there been a leader upon whom fhe mass could have confided, a change in the I-ule of the country might eaaily have been brought about. Various parties applied to the Nawiib Jab& K h h , who, while he listened to every one, and e x p m e d

RETRENCHMENTS. 351

himself as dissatisfied as any other person, was de- terred by indecision of character, or perhapa pru- dence, from profiting by the opportunity to elevate himself. A cause of much disquietude-and stormy altercation during this season of plots and alarm was the necessity the amh found himself under of reducing his army, and of providing for the in- creased numbers now dependent upon him, owing to the breaking-up of the Peshiiwer darbk and government. There were many of his B h k Zai relatives, and many D h h i s of respectability, as well as others, who had previously subsisted in the employ of SG1til.n Maomed K h b , whose claims even the amh did not disput,e. The question was, how to satisfy them. As it was impossible to en- tertain both his full amount of ancient troops and these new-comers, he adopted the medium course of rejecting the inefficient, and of retaining only the effective of both classes. So much opposition was offered that he succeeded but partially to carry his point. But when he called upon his chiefs to sacrifice a portion of their allowances to meet the wants of their relatives and friends now expelled from Peshiwer, he was assailed by loudly- expressed discontent, and amongst the most noisy and querulous was Hgji K h b , who, if he had not acquired his former influence, indulged in all his accustomed freedom of speech.

Previous to starting on the late expedition he had been questioned as to what was likely to

352 HAJI KHAN'S CONVERSATIONS.

happen, and replied, " Nothing serious ; but as long as the business is about the amh will put his .

arms around my neck and cry HAji L&la ! what is to be done? Hkji Lala ! what is to be done ? When it is over, he will think of nothing else but, by some pretext or other, to reduce my sti- pend." I had visited the khan in the camp a t Jelaabbd, and he asked me what I thought of pending affairs. I put to him the same question. H e said, i t was hardly possible to contend with the numerous and disciplined troops of the Sikhs; that he had recommended the amir to postpone the expedition until next year. He complained that the amir placed no trust in any one but his own sons. All the brothers, he averred, should have been present ; those at Kindah& were not inclined to move; while SGltEln MBhomed K h h was at Bgjor, everyone knew for what purpose. Had the enemy been Shib, he said, being still MGssulmbs, there would have been a means of accommodation with them, as there would had they been Faringhis, who do not trouble them- selves about the religion of other people; but with the Sikhs, unclean infidels, who were nei- ther one thing nor the other, there waa no com- ing to an understanding. He concluded by l a menting that with such antagonists there was no room or justification for the exhibition of treaaon. The khkn, however, proved prophetical, as regarded the fate which awaited his stipend ; but he took the

POPULAR DISSATISFACTION. 363

amir's resolution in very ill-humour, and was anxi- ous, by strong language, to have set i t aside. One day he addressed the am& :-" If I tell you that you have surpassed your brother, Vazir Fatl Kh&n and Si rdk Mdhomed Azem K h b ; that you went with twenty thousand men, and placed yourself in front -of seventy thousand Sikhs, that you dis- charged your guns upon them, that you fought them, and brought their heads into your camp,- then you are angry. I f I tell you, that you went and showed them your nakedness, and sneaked 0%-

then you are angry ; there is no saying anything to please you." The amir put his turban on the ground before H&ji K h h , and conjured him to have pity, remarking, " You know what I was when you first became acquainted with me in the vazir's camp." The reduction of allowances being general, the bulk of those affected by i t wished to have broken out into rebellion, and were very earnest with the Na- wiib Jab& K h h that he should resist its applica- tion to himself, which they would accept as a sig- nal to unsheath their swords in his support. The nawkb was irresolute ; and on the amh opening the aubject to him, yielded a t once, and consented to the diminution of his allowances.

When the wrath of Mirza Sami Khkn had be- come a little appeased, and he condescended to resume the toilsome duties of office, he never ceased to complain of the neglect shown by the Siihibkn of Hind. About this time I received the

VOL. 111. 2 A

354 LUDUNA OVERTURES.

letter from Captain Wade, of which I have given e x t m t s in the preceding chapter. In other lettera from the mirzas in attendance upon AbdGl G h i k K h h , the same officer had explained in detail the steps to be taken to bring about a commercial treaty. I could not but rematk, that such informs- tion was conveyed through unofficial channels ; still, aa communicating the wish of the government, I had only to support it to the extent of my power. It was understood that Sh&h SGjhh a1 MGlkh, on his return to LGdiha, had not for some time been favoured by a visit from the political agent, who reproached the unlucky monarch for having made him a darogllghwi, or liar, to his government ; and it may have been supposed, that owing to that functionary's temporary ire Dost Mdhomed K h h was indebted for the present overtures. I had conferences with the nawAb and Mkza Sami Kh$n on the subject, and enforced the propriety of doing everything that Captain Wade seemed to intimate and desire, and after much delay answers were eent. There was a struggle between the nawab and Mirza Saml K h b as to which of them should be deputed to LGdiha to arrange the treaty, the former considering he was entitled to be so honour- ed, and the latter deeming himself to be the fit person on account of his enjoying the amir's con- fidence. These differences were unfortunate, as both parties had been given to understand that it was Captain Wade's wish to be invited to Klbal

COMMERCIAL TREATIES. 365 's

himself, and I considered this so very likely that I regretted my inability to persuade them aimply to express their entire concurrence as to the ad- vantages of the proposed arrangements, and to leave the ulterior steps to the pleasure and dis- cretion of the political agent. Mirza Sami K h b addressed a letter to Captain Wade, in which he expressed his great desire to see him, which, how- ever, could not be gratified without an intimation from LBdiBna. I suspected this would prove fatal to the commercial treaty, and eventually a letter was received in reply, noting that however great the mirz6s desire might be to see Captain Wade, it could not exceed that officer's desire to see the &a; and nothing farther wm heard of the over- tures for a commercial treaty. The errom of the Kiibal politicians may, however, have benefited Shhh SGjiili a1 MGlkh, for the political agent's anger towards him moderated, and at an inter- view, when the Sh&h lamented his ill success, he was soothed, and informed that God would make all things easy.

It became my duty to report, from the slight encouragement with which Captain Wade's over- tures were received at Kabal, aa well as from the juggling to which they gave rise, that, in my opinion, the advantages of rt commercial treaty were not duly appreciated, a~ well aa that the time was adverse to the consideration of such matters ; and, singular enough, I see my sentiments

2 r L

366 INTRIGUES AT KABAL. rn

at this time, 1836, brought forward in a recent debate in the House of Commons by Sir John Hobhouse, to justify the aggressive line of policy adopted in 1838.

The receipt of the letters from LGdiha did not affect the active intrigues carried on in KAbal, which raged with undiminished violence. The na- wAba, and others of the amir's relatives, were closely combined; and the KazilbLhes wished to have made me the medium of opening a corre- ~pondence with Liidiha, for the purpose of re- instating Shah SGjiih al MGlkh. I, of course, de- clined to become the medium, and even to see their principals, as had been wished. These people were anxious to have begun the busineea without reference to the nawlb, and only aaked my coun- tenance. I necessarily was unable to respond to so much zeal. I, however, apprised the nawiib of part of what had been proposed, and he prayed me to say nothing which might damp the effer- vescence. The audacious AbdGl Samad, by a per- son in his confidence, offered to seize the amir and to proclaim the s h s , provided I gave my aseent. The amir's eldest son, in close alliance with the nawkba and their fhction, swore the amir was not his father, and stigmatized him aa some- thing worse than a knave. R r Miihomed K h h , . with Hiiji Khan, were inclined to the most des- perate measures, and constantly upbraided the na- wiib for his dilatoriness.

EXm4CTS PROM LETTERS. 357

In these troubled times, when the slightest movement would have involved the country in anarchy, I preserved the same steady courae, jet, as in duty bound, reported circumstances as they arose and came to my knowledge, to Captain Wade ; and the notice he took of them will be seen by the following extracts fiom his letters a t this period :-

" Lfidihna, 25th July, 1835.

" I have to thank you for the zealous attention which you continue to evince in the discharge of the duties that have been imposed on you. I am well aware of the difficulty which you must some- times experience in encountering the intrigues that a t present prevail in KAbal, and in conciliating the good-will of the different parties who are now con- tending for the gratification of their own views and interests at that place, but my confidence in your discernment assures me that you will be able to meet any contingencies that may arise with abi- lity and discretion, and in a manner best calculated to secure the reputation, and promote the acknow- ledged designs of our government, in opening the navigation of the Indus. I t will be a pleasing office to me to bring your services from time to time to the notice of government, whenever I find that I can do so with propriety, and I hope they will ultimately reap their full reward."

I n the same letter the replies from Klibal, re-

358 EXTRACTS PROM LMTERS.

ferring to the commercial overtures, are alluded to. " By the preeent opportunity I have the plea- sure to send you the letter which you wished me to write to Dost MQhomed KhAn, together with my replies to two letters addressed to me by Mirza AbdGl Sami K h h and Mirza Rajab Ali, which I have left open for your perusal. Copies of two letters sent to the amir and his brother, are like- wise enclosed for your information. hiy letters to the two mirzas are merely in reply to letters re- ceived from them, of the contents of which I con- clude you are aware. It is not consistent with the usage of our government, whatever it may be of theirs, for its officers to correspond with people in the relative situation which they hold to their chiefs. The chiefs themselves, too, are in the habit of writing to the head of our govern- ment, with a frequency which is embarrassing to government, when it cannot respond to their letters in a tone agreeable to their expectations and wishes ; and I approve of the discretion which you have used in discouraging the transmission of let- ters which appeared to you to be objectionable in principle." And again : "The present crisis of affairs in KAbal is a highly interesting one. I heartily hope with you that it may eventually tend to place our relations with that country on a better footing than they are at present. The means are equally, if not more, in the hands of the Barak Zais than our own, but ss the different parties concerned

PROSCRIPTION LISTS. 369

refer the consideration of their conflicting views to me, and I have no authority to favour one more than another, i t is difficult for me to express any opiniou as to the course which they ought respec- tively to take, that is not authorized in some mea- sure by the communications which I receive from government. In the case of ShAh Siijiih's last ex- pedition, I was obliged to reply to similar appeals by observing, that the Barak Zais ought to be the best judges of what consisted with their own wel- h r e ; and I do not feel entitled to deviate from that expression on the present occasion, though I deem it my duty to communicate everything that you report, for the information of government."

I shall not comment on these extracts farther than to observe, that there is no longer any allusion to commercial overtures, and that, as before ex- plained, the political agent's intercourse with Shiih Siijiih a1 BfGlkh had been renewed.

Captain Wade had justly described the crisis of affairs in Kiibal as a highly interesting one, but it had not yet arrived at maturity. Rashfd Ak- hhndziida, as agent to the brother-chiefs of KAn- dahir, reached the city, and we had to look for the development of the projects which the amir and his adviser Mirza Sami Khan had concerted. The AkhGndzkda pretended perfect acquiescence, but was instructed by his employers to counteract the amir's plans. Lists of the proscribed were drawn up. The first comprised twelve names of

360 SUBTLETY OF AKHUNDZADA.

the amh's relatives and other principal men. The second contained .about one hundred names of per- sons of minor consideration, and of all classes and descriptions, but who, being supposed to possess wealth, were deemed fit objects for plunder and slaughter. Rashid AkhGndzBda cleverly performed his part. H e simulated entire approval and com- pliance with everything the amir proposed, won his confidence, and became entrusted with all his secrets. The AkhGndziida had, however, due at- tention to his own profit in the delicate business, and while assiduous in cultivating the good graces of the amir, he was in constant communication with those of the adverse and devoted faction, who strove, by valuable presents, to secure his fa- vour. H e alternately soothed and excited their alarms, but never allowing their apprehensions wholly to subside, contrived to keep them in that state of incertitude and uneasiness which preserved unimpaired his importance to them, and induced the necessity for them to be very liberal, and to be unable to refuse anything which he desired or coveted. The IiAndahiir agent, a shrewd man, was 80 avaricious that it has been remarked of him, that were he placed in a naked room, rather than leave it without taking something away he would scrape off the plaster from the walls. On this occasion there can be no doubt but that he greatly enriched himself a t the expense of those whom t,he amir had consigned to destruction.

PRECAUTIONS OF THE DEVOTED. 361

The day for the general seizure was finally fixed ; the crafty Mirza S a d KhAn having arranged every- thing, so that, as he imagined, it only remained to act, withdrew himself to the Koh D h a n , on pre- tence of looking after his villages, but in reality to put himself out of the way, that he might here- after assert that all had been done without his sanction or knowledge ; and that, in case of failure, he might return to the city with good grace as a mediator. The amir could scarcely have been ignorant that his designs had, become matter of notoriety. Copies of his lists were in possession of many. The NawBb J a b k Khiin, moreover, had openly taxed him with his dark intentions in darbiir, and upon his denial had given up his sources of

intelligence, which a little confounded him. S u p ported, as he conceived, by Rashid AkhGndzbda, he determined to work out his plans. The individuals exposed to danger did not neglect their precau- tions. They kept their retainers under arms night and day, and took especial care not to call upon the amir together, that they might not be seized in a mass; also, when they did attend they were nu- merously accompanied by armed followers. In this unpleasant state of d a i m my house in the BQla Hissk was assaulted for five successive nights by bands of muffled villains. I quietly filled my house with armed men, and without taking farther notice, bided in tranquillity the course of events. It is just to observe, t,hat I did not so much suspect the am'rr,

362 DANGER OF MY SITUATION.

however capable he was of any enormity, as I did the unprincipled AbdGl Samad, and others. This man had been desirous of forming an acquaintance with me. Seeing no possible benefit likely to arise from intercourse with such an individual, I declined to have anything to do wit11 him, but however civilly I excused myself he was not the less offended. Now that he might reasonably calculate upon a period of anarchy and confusion, I supposed he considered the occasion favourable to destroy me, assured that a t such a time there would be little inquiry or calling to account. In this conjuncture Fati Mhhomed K h h , Popal Zai, himself one of the proscribed, represented to the Nawib Jab&- KhCn the peril which menaced me in the Bidla Hiss&, and the nawib promised to send for me on the marrow. H e was too much occupied with his own cares and apprehensions to think of me, and forgot to do so. I had decided not to shift my quarters, so the nawib's omission was unimpor- tant. Until this year, although I had lived in the country since the spring of 1832, I had never called upon the amir, as I had nothing to say to, or to do with him, and so far as I knew, while aware of my presence, he did not concern himself about me.

1 had become intimate with his eldest sons, and of this circumstance, most likely, he was informed. Subsequent to my appointment, he had sent for me twice, and, to judge from the evidence of his language, for the exprees purpose of intimidating

OPPOSITION TO THE AMIR. 363

and insulting me. I did not allow myself to be put down, and answered him in a tone similar to that in which he addressed me. A t length the even- ing came when Dost Miihomed KhAn proposed, the following morning, to put into execution his long-cherished and cogitated plans of blood and plunder. H e fancied himself about to be elevated above the treachery of his relatives and their ad- herents, while treasures were about to flow into his coffers which would enable him to wage eternal crusades and warfare with the Sikhs, and other in- fidels. H e sat meditating on his fell purpose, await- ing Rashid AkhGndzAda, when that important per- sonage made his appearance. With a countenance full of dismay, he announced that all had transpired, and plainly told the arnir, that he must not think of putting his designs into effect, for he had just left the nawdbs and their confederates, who had exchanged oaths, and sworn to repel force by force. The amir was sorely incensed, but the AkhGndzdda pressed his point, insisting that violence must not be thought of, or ruin would follow. Their con- versation grew very animated, but the amir saw that he had been foiled, and understood on whose side the AkhGndzAda had ranged himself, while, left as it were alone, he had not even M'uza Sami Khan to consult. H e ssked the AkhGndzAda why he had come from KAndahk to deceive him and to over- throw his plans. This question brought on a dis- cussion, which closed by the amir receiving per-

364 SEIZURE OF -4BDULAH KHAN.

mission (I believe T rightly express the state of the case) to seize AbdGlah Khiin, the Atchak Zai sir&, on the next day. H e was inimically re- garded by the chiefs of Khdahiir, and was per- sonally obnoxious to the AkhGndzAda, while he waa suspected of having much wealth. Being a Duriid sirdbr, no one felt any sympathy for him, and he was unconnected with the nawiibs and their faction. As the amir was disappointed with respect to the capital prizes he had coveted, it was judged be- coming to glut his avarice with one of smaller consideration. This affiir settled, at midnight the amir sent for AbdGl Samad, and made arrange- ments for the disposition of the battalion. Two companies were ordered immediately to the palace, for now, in turn, the plotter of so much mischief became influenced by fear. I t had been proposed that the wives of the am& should invite the ladies of AbdGlah K h b to visit them, as they would in that case array themselves in their jewels, which could be secured within the hbram, while their lord and his adherents were despoiled without. So flagrant a breach of hospitality found its repro- bators, and the foul idea was dismissed. In the morning Abdiilah K h h was sent for by Miihomed Akbir Khan, and coming as unsuspicious of fraud as he was innocent of crime, was accused of cor- responding wit11 K h & n of H&rit, and made pri- soner. His retinue was despoiled of horses and arms, while a company of soldiers was despatched

RESTITUTION OF PROPERIT. 365

to take possession of his house and property. The amir's visions of gold and jewels were not re* lized ; and after he had divided the horses acquired amongst his sons, relatives, and principal chiefs, making them, in a manner, accomplices in his guilt, and silencing their reproaches 'by making them sharers in the profit derived from it, little was left to his own lot beyond a few shawls, carpets, felts and copper vessels. He now grew ashamed either of the deed, or of the small advantage attending it, and ingenuously confessed his sorrow in darbk. The k h h mGlla remarked, that he should have thought of contrition before he committed crime. After some time AbdGlah K h h was set at liberty, his horses were returned from those to whom they had been distributed and restored to him, as was most of his other property. The amir had sold his shawls to merchants, who had sent them to B o k h h ; and as they could not be recovered, a draft for their value was given. The amir had discovered that he had been duped by Rashid AkhGndzPda, and that the seizure and spoliation of the Atchak Zai sirdiir were acts rather agreeable to the chiefs of Kin- dahik than profitable to himself. Public opinion, which in KPbal has a beneficial and controlling in- fluence, and often checks the irregularities of its rulers, was loudly expressed, and the degradation of a man whose only error was fidelity to the B h k Zai family throughout its various fortunes, was in- dignantly reprobated. The tale of correspondence

with K k m r h no one believed, and it was deemed absurd to expect money from a man who had been subjected to spoil but the preceding year by his employers a t Kiindahbi..

A t an early period of my antiquarian researches I had, through the medium of Colonel, now Sir Henry Pottinger, made proposals to the Bombay government, over which the Earl of Clare then presided, and they were favourably received. I had subsequently the satisfaction of receiving the assurance that my labours were appreciated, a valu- able testimony, because I felt that it would not be given unless judged to be merited. Captain Wade, aware of this connexion, on requesting me to correspond with him, and before I received notice of the appointment as agent, had, on the 6th of December, 1834, in allusion thereto, accu- rately described i t as " one of a scientific nature," and properly continued, " and will not, of course, interfere with the connexion which you have formed with me, as such a collision might prove embarrass- ing to all parties." So soon, however, as the dnt.ies of agent were, to use Captain Wade's appropriate term, " imposed" on me, and he considered me well within his grasp, I found that it was plainly his intention to interfere, and that he was very careless as to producing the collision and embar- rassment he had formerly deprecated. From the correspondence which ultimately became revealed, as well as from other sources, I observed &th

RANJIT SINGH GIVES UP PESHAWER. 367

regret that he was abetted by tlie tllc~l Mr. Be- cretary Macnaghten, and that he had succeeded temporarily to embroil me with Colonel Pottin- ger and with the Bombay government, who ho- nourably supported their owl1 officer. I saw no alternative, therefore, but to tender the resignation of an appointment which was made instrumental in promoting strife and mischief, and did so with one hand while with the other I forwarded a full explanation to Colonel Pottinger. I now felt my- self at liberty, as winter had set in, to retire from KAbal; and leaving behind its politics and in- trigues, repaired to the milder and serener atmo- sphere of Tiitang.

I was not so easy in mind as to resume old pursuits with any pleasure, and did little more than while away the winter months. About this time Ranjit Singh, finding that the occupation of Peshkwer was not only expensive but even difficult-although on the retreat of the amir a fortress of considerable strength had been erected on the site of the old citadel, and other forts had been constructed in the country,-thought prudent to secure the services of SGltCn Miihomed Khkl by giving to him Hashtnagar, and the Dokbeh, north of the KPbal river, with the southern dis- tricts of Kohkt and HhgG, which his troops could not well hold; and this prudential act gave him an opportunity of boasting that he had fulfilled his arrangements with Dost Mhhomed K h h .

368 INTERVIEW WITH THE AMIR.

SGl th Mhhomed Khh ' s arrival at Peshiwer was followed by the despatch of numerous vaunt- ing letters to his brother and relatives a t Kkbal, and they attached more than due credit to them for the time. The Nawhb J a b b K l ~ h was so assured that SGl th MQhomed K h h was in a condition to act offensively that he not only entirely fell in with his supposed views, but rejected the sum- mons of the amir to return to Kkbal. It was to no purpose I pointed out that he was in error: he was unwilling to dismiss an illusion so agree- able to his wishes. Orders after orders came from Dost Miihomed K h b , still the nawAb prolonged his stay; and finally, when he could not bring himself to obey them, he despatched his family, and I availed myself of their company to the city, and again found myself in my old quarters.

The amir had naturally kept himself informed of my movements and actions ; and he appeared more satisfied than formerly as to niy intentions. I had an interview with him shortly after my re- turn ; and he chose to be civil, remarking, that I ought to call upon him, as we were neighbours, and it was only seemly that one neighbour should enquire occasionally after another; and probably, in consequence of my having combated the nawkb's inclinations in favour of SGldn Mtihomed Khkn, would frequently observe, that I was at least not his enemy, and, moreover, listened approvingly to

PLANS OF THE AMIR. 369

the praises which many in the darbk now vell- tured to bestow upon me.

It is needless to detail the political events of this year (1836), as they would principally turn upon the abortive attempts of the amk to dissipate the confederacy of his relatives, and their measures to counteract him. Generally, they would prac- tise upon his fears, which were easily excited ; and the stratagem sufficed to divert his attention from them to other objects. The presence of SGltBn M6homed K h h at Peshdwer enabled them to procure an abundance of eloquent epistles suit- able to their views; and when they wanted these it was easy to forge them ; and his brother, Pir M d homed KhBn, provided with his seal, could readily affix it and make them sufficiently authentic. It must be acknowledged that the amk wrrs not suffered to remain in repose. If disposed to be tranquil, E r Mdhomed K h h would present him- self with a letter, said to have been just received from his brother, and addressed to himself or to his mother. Prefacing the delivery by protest- ing that he was bound to produce any commu- nication from that quarter, and of course that he was not answerable for its contents, the letter on being read would be full of the most oppro- brious terms and menaces, and consequently ex- tremely irritate the amir. The latter had been anxious to have carried into execution the dark plans of last year, and was desirous of doing the

SOL. 111. 2 'B

370 PANIC OF THE AMIR.

business himself, without trusting to Rashid Ak- hGndzhda or others. His doubts, however, aa to the results led him to endeavour to detach some of the confederacy, and he selected Miihomed 0s- m h K h h aa one likely to be worked upon. When he thought him sufficiently prepared, he divulged his intentions, and said, " Let us take a knife, and cut through the flesh of our arms to the bone; and when we have mangled and mutilated ourselves, no one can reproach us with mangling and mutilating others." Miihomed 0s- m h Khin reported to his friends all that passed, and returned to the amir to listen to fresh inti- mations of his designs. I do not think there was much reason for apprehension this year; but on a sudden the amir was overwhelmed with letters from various persons, announcing that SG1- t8n Miihomed K h h , with a large force, was st* tioned in Biijor, ready to descend upon the valley of Jeliilabiid. All who were in the secret ex- claimed, " Good heavens ! what are you about ? why sleep when the enemy is at your doors?" The businem was so well managed that the amir was panic-struck, and although he could not com- prehend the danger, feared it. H e inquired what was to be done ? Hhji K h h replied, that troops must instantly be despatched to secure the passes leading from Biijor and Peshiiwer to Jeliilabad. The amir asked who would go ? The khiin replied, that he would, and that AbdGl Samad should be

HAJI KHAN AND THE HLNDUS. 371:

sent to Khonar. IIAji KhAn ordered his pesh- khAna to Sibh Sang, where it remained for a month, and was then silentIy withdrawn. A con- siderable degree of ridicule was caused by the manoeuvres put into play on this occasion; and they were never clearly understood, for it soon became known that SGltAn Mi5homed K h h had never quitted Peshbwer. Had the arnk dispersed his troops, and deprived himself of his battalion, he would have been left alone in Khbal at the - mercy of his adversaries,-a position in which they might have been pleased to see him, but one into which he was too wary to place himself. H e probably discovered the futility of attempting to illvolve the whole of his obnoxious relatives in destruction by a amp de main, and henceforth his policy led him to essay their subversion by attacking them singly.

Hiiji K h h , who had been so eager to display his zeal, availed himself of the opportunity to im- prove his finances, and called together some Hind& of the city, to whom collectively he waa indebted seven thousand rupees. They attended with ala- crity, presuming he intended to settle their accounts preparatory to entering upon his campaign. 'He addressed them in an oration, setting forth, that he was about to engage in a war with infidels, and that, adverting to its chances, they all knew how disgraceful it ~vould be to a MGssnlmfin to die in debt. That he owed them seven thousand myees,

4 8 2

372 UNPOPULARITY OF THE AMIR.

for which they held liis bonds; they would confer a signal favour upon him, and at the same time perform a worthy action, if they returned them, and allowed him to go to battle with a clear con- science. H e had always been their friend in t.he

, darbb, and they had made large profits in their transactions with him; and they well knew that if he returned safe and victorious they would not be losers by him. H e had not a rupee to move his men from the city, and they would confer an everlasting favour upon him if they advanced him two thouknd rupees a t so important a crisis; in doing so, they might expect that their riches would increase vastly in this world, and they would all become cows in the world to come, for so cha- ritable and generous a deed could not but secure its h e reward. The HindGs were astounded, but the k h h was irresistible, and procured the sur- render of his bonds, with the two thousand rupees, for which he gave an order for grain on Chah6.r- - bAgh of LGghmh.

The large military force the amir deemed i t advisable to keep up, and to which he was in some memure compelled, pressed heavily upon his finances, and a multitude of expedient8 were put into practice to meet the extraordinary expenses i t involved. No opportunity was neglected of seizing property, and although a pretext, more or leae valid, was generally urged, extreme dissatisfac- tion prevailed, and the popularity of the amir

MOVEMENTS OF THE SIKHS. 373

diminished daily. An effort made to increase the revenues derived from the Ghilji districts of Ghazni threw them into insurrection, and the Ghilji dis- tricts of Kiibal were on the verge of revolt for the same reason. In both instances the amir gained a trifle, notwithstanding the Ghazni Ghiljis defeat- ed his troops. In the autumn Miihomed Akbar K h h marched into Taghow, and after some severe fighting, in which men of consideration were slain, possessed himself of the valley. Here also tribute was enforced. Many of the troops employed in this expedition went provided with barAts, or ordem for their pay, drawn out in anticipation. Such ordera are described as being on the stag's antlers, meaning that the stag must be l h t caught.

Abroad, while to the east the Sikhs were con- solidating their power at Peshiiwer, and extending their arms and influence on the western banks of the Indus, now actually occupying the level country of Dhan, in which formerly only their agents resided, while they pushed their 'troops into Ban6 ; to the west, Sh& Kiimrh demonstrated that he was able to leave Her6t ; and his army spread over SLstkn, which he rendered tributary. Of all men living there was no one so dreaded by the Biirak Zais as Shkh Kiimrh. For many years civil dissensions and intrigues had confined him within the walls of Herit, and it was supposed that he would never be competent to leave them. Having purified hi$ house, agreeably to his own fashion,

by murder and banishment, he now appeared in the field, and but for the views of his minister, Yiir Mihomed K h h , which were opposed to his progress esstward, would very probably have possessed him- self of Khdahiir. His movements, however, pre- vented some contemplated 'seizures at KLbal, Hyi KhAn suggesting that the times were critical, and remarking, with some propriety, that when a man was abroad who would spare none of them, it behoved them not to destroy each other.

The close of this year was marked by the depar- ture from Klibal of Pir Miihomed KhQn, half brother to the am& and full brother to SGltQn Milhomed K h h . Of the amir's relatives he was the most turbulent, and therefore most appre- hended. A daring and desperate man, he was particularly desirous of acting, and the more pru- dent Nawtb, Jab& K h h , had frequently trouble to restrain him. H e had, besides, money, and was therefore enabled to keep his troops together, and of them he had aa many as seven hundred, chiefly Atchak Zais and Ghiljis. The amir, constantly informed of all his plane-for it was llotorious that his writers had been corrupted-thought it necessary to be rid of him, and had twice sent assslssins by night to his house. They missed Fn Maomed KhQn, but on the first visit carried off money and valuables to the amount of twenty-four thoussnd rupees, and on the second, to tlie amount of five thousand rupees. Complainillg to the amir, the

LETl'ER FROM INDIA. 376

s i rdb ;r jeeringly told, that most likely the Nawhb J a b k K h b had done the evil, as every one knew he entertained robbers. Matters having come to this extremity, Ku Mihomed K h b saw the necessity of leaving Kiibal, and after much debate and altercation did so. Many of his fol- lowers were seduced by the am'u, and remained, while his eldest son even returned from BhGt Kh&. Orders were sent to the authorities a t

0 JelSlabbd to obstruct his paaage by every means short of actual violence ; not to admit him within the town, and to tamper with his dependents. Other orders were sent to Khonar, to the Momands, and to the Khaibaris respectively, instructing them not to grant a passage through their countries either to Biijor or to Peshiiwer. Mhhomed Akbar K h h precipitately gained Jeliilabiid from Taghow, where his brother, Miihomed Haidar K h h , waa sent from KAbal to replace him, but, in despite of obstacles, Pir Miihomed K h b , with the remnant of his fol- lowers, reached LhlpGra, where he waa met by Am& KhAn of Biijor with a good force, and together they marched into Bgjor.

Soon after my return to KElbal in the spring, I had received letters from India; among them one from Mr. Trevelyan, in reply to a communication I had made containing the reasons which had com- pelled me to tender the resignation of the appoint- ment imposed on me. I was recommended to continue to discharge the duties, and was told,

, <

376 RESUME DUTIES.

I' Your sole duty, is to keep the supreme govern- ment informed of all that is going on in any of the countries beyond the Indus, intelligence of which reaches KBbal, with the addition, whenever you think proper to offer any, of your own views and comments upon the particulars communicated by you. By doing this well, as you have hitherto done, you will render an important public service, and it will always be open to the Governor-general to employ you in any other way he may think proper."

In deference to these sentiments, although ~ o t very satisfactory ones, I renewed my correspondence with Captain Wade, in despite of an official letter I received a t the same time, with a very obsequious private one from that officer, and which would have fully justified me to have declined any farther intercourse with him, even according to his patron, the then Mr. Secretary Macnaghten, who, when in-

, formed of it in 1838, and being told that a friend of mine had characterized i t as an insolent and imperious letter, remarked, that it merited severer reprobation.

During this year little correspondence took place between the authorities in Kibal and Lbdibna. The accession of Sir Charles Metcalfe to the government in India had produced letters, indeed, from the amir and nawhb Mirza Sami KhAn ; re- membering that Sir Charles had corresponded with the Vazir Fati K h h ; but no replies were received,

HUSSEN ALI. 377

the policy of the government being for the 1110-

ment opposed to dubious connexions with states beyond the frontiers; which events have proved was the wise policy, since a deviation from i t has produced such signal disaster and disgrace.

It became my duty this year to report the des- patch of fresh lettem to Persia, which were sent by HAji Ibriihim, a brother of AbdGl Samad. This profligate man had amassed some money, for, be- sides large allowances, he trafficked, made ducats, and scrupled a t no means of increasing his wealth. It was a point with him to send i t out of the country, and his brother was commissioned to return to Persia, and to deposit i t there. Of course, letters were procured to the sh%h, if no other object were hoped from them, that the importance of AbdGl Samad might be made known. As the journey was dangerous to the Htiji, HGss6n A l i a young man of the BQla Hissb, who had more than once gone as far ae Orenburgh, was prevailed upon to accompany him to B o k h h . I was well ac- quainted with HGssCn Ali, and he took l a v e of me previously to his departure, but never mention- ed that he was charged with letters for the Rus- sian government, nor did any one suspect that he was. H e had a commission to purchase furs for AbdGl Samad, and spontaneously offered to be useful to me in any way.

A t the close of last year letters from B o k h h had announced the presence there of Iv6n Vekk-

378 VEKTAVICH AT BOKHARA.

vich, whose name has since been sufficiently noto- rious. A merchant of KAbal, then at that place, noted to his correspondent that Vektavich had been arrested as a Pmian spy, when he declared himself to be a Russian, and was in consequence released by the Ghosh Begi. Thereupon presuming, he openly took notes, which being reported to the amir, that chief proposed to slay him, but the Ghosh Begi again privately sent him say, with an escort, to MangkishlAk, on the Cbpian. Vek- tavich had requested of the merchant to forward letters to me, and to Mr. Court at Lahore, but his sudden departure deprived us of the honour of his communications. Vektavich gave himself out as a most important personage, and declared that Russia, being at ease as regarded Persia and Turkey, intended to interfere in the affiirs of Central Asia.

Vektavich was still in B o k h h when Hiji Ibrillim and HBssBn- Ali reached, and the latter went in his company to Mangkishlgk. Hiiji Ibr6- him, in a letter from Bokhba, reported the flight of HGssCn Ali, and that he had made off with a number of his ducats, and requested his brother to confiscate his house and property at Kkbal. AbdGl h a d did not do so, and observed, that HGssCn All had gone on his business, or, as waa supposed by those who heard him, to buy furs.

In reporting the despatch of letters to Persia 1 remarked, that it remained wit11 the government

DESIGNS OF ABDUL SMMD. 579

to consider the value to be placed on such communi- cations, and to treat them lightly or otherwise. In case they were seriously judged, there were ready imtrnments of arresting the evil, vie. Shih St5j6h al M6lkh at LGdfsina, or Sh&h K h a n , already in the field. From the tone in which I set forth the matter, it must have been clear that my opi- nion was, that very little notice need be taken of them.

Amongst the consolatory events of this year, was the assurance communicated to me, by orders of the Bombay government, that the vindication, into which the subtle conduct of the political agent at L6diba had forced me, w& entirely satisfactory.

I remained this year in Kabal until its termina- tion, and should most likely have paseed the winter there, when I became apprised of a circumstance which induced me to accompany the NawAb Jabiir Khan to Thtang. The amir's eldeot son, MAhomed Afzil K h h , had been appointed to collect the revenue of KhGram, which for two years had been neglected, and AbdGl Samad, with his battalion, was commissioned to attend him. This fellow, i t seemed, had urged my seizure upon the amir, striving to delude him with the notion of finding twenty thousmd rnpees in my house. I was un- conscious of all this, when I received an intimation from a quarter I was not permitted to suspect, that it was necessary to be on my guard against the designs of AbdGl Samad. According to the

380 JOURNEY TO TATANQ.

information given, the amh, when the subject was proposed to him, honourably affirmed that I was his guest. H e therefore was not consenting. Abdill Samad, who possessed a singular influence with the am'lr's most powerful wife, endeavoured to obtain her support to the step he recommended ; and from this lady's control over her husband, if she really exerted it, I had reason for mistrust. The day for AbdGl Samad's march drew near, and he streiluously pressed upon the amir to proceed to extremity with me, saying, that unlem he did he should not leave Kkbal satisfied. The amir replied, that he might go with his mind perfectly at eaae, for he should very soon be in- formed how Masson Siihib had been treated. I understood that the amir by his answer had evaded the request, and ridden himself of AbdGl Samad's importunity. I, however, informed the Nawkb Jab& K h h of what I had heard, without making him acquainted with the source of my intelligence, and he, observing, very tardy, that they were all scoundrels, and not to be trusted, proposed that I should accompany him to TBtang, to which I agreed ; and in a day or two after we started.

CHAPTER XVI.

Aggressions of Hari Singh.-Preparations to repel it.-Despatch of troops to Jelh1aW.-Plans of attack.-Attempt to a d t e the Amir.-Retaliition of Mihomed Akbar KhBn.-March into Khsibar.-Cannonade of Jamrhd.-Attack by Hari Singh.-Die- comfiture of Afghiins.-Battle renewed by Shemaadin K h h - Danger of Amir's eons -Feat of Mdhomed Akbar Kh2n.-Hari singh mortally wounded. - Retreat of Sikhs. - Mirza Sarni Khan's prayem-Death of Hari Singh.-His intrepidity.-Dis- putes in the Afghan camp.-Altercation between AM61 Samad and Mlr Afzil Kh$n.-Retreat of Afgh2n army.-Hkji Khh 's deeds in the Doiibeh. - Lknah Singh's mesaagee. - Hhji Khan's lettere to Klbal.-Contest with' LCnah Sigh.-Retreat of H&ji Kh&n.-His suggestione a t Je1B;labPd.-His treachery. -AMG1 Samad'e effrontery.-His degradation and dismissal.- Interview with the Amir.-With Mihomed Akbar Khan.- Mirza Saml Khan's advia-Conwpondence between Sikhs and Afgh2ne.-Return to K2bal.-Adventure at Jigdil1ik.-Recep- tion of Mhomed Akbar Khan a t KBbal.-Dismissal of Hiji Khan.-His welcome at K6ndahh.-His connexion with the Britbh-Hie underatanding with GblG.-Hie pursuit of Doat Mghomed Kh6n.-Hie final disposal-The Amtr'e diepleasure with the Ghazni chiefs.-Zerin KhWs remark-Motives of displeasure.-Fkmoval of S h a m d i n Khh-Remonetrance of Khdahtlr Sirdaira.-Supposed plans of the Amfr.-The Amir'a exultation.

THE commencement of the year 1837 was distin- guished by active preparations on part of the amh

382 AGGRESSIONS OF HARI SINGH.

to resent the occupation of a petty castle a t JarnrGd, by Hari Singh, the S'ih governor of Peshiwer. The a m 5 was apprehensive that the step taken by the Sikhs was a prelude to farther aggressive measure% and he saw, in the intimidation and submission of the people of Khaibar, the road laid open to Jeliil- abtid. JamrGd, i t may be observed, is a t the very entrance of the defiles of Khaibar. The amh did not on this occasion himself leave Khbal, but de- puted his confidential minister, Mima Snmi KhAn, to superintend the operations, his son Miihomed Akbar Khhn commanding the troops. It was not the actual intention of the am'u that collision should take place, but i t was judged necessary to make a display of force, and to secure the Khai- barb, endangered by the proximity of the Sikhs. For this purpose Mima Sami Khhn was provided with money, and instructed to arrange the payment of annual allowances to their principals. It was also determined, if possible, to erect a castle and to esta- blish a garrison in Khaibar. Five of the amir's sons were present with the army collected on this occasion; Miihomed Afzil K h h , Mtihomed Akbar Khhn, Miihomed Azem K h h , Mtihomed IIaidar KhQn, and Miihomed Akram KhAn. With them were the Nawfbs J a b k K h h and htihomed 0s - mbn Khbn, SGjjCh Dowlah Khhn, son of the Nawgb Miihomed Zemhn Khfn, and Shamsadin K h h , the amir's nephew. Of the high military chiefs, were NiGb Amir AkhGnddda, NGb Mlilla Momind

ATTEMPT TO ASSAMINATE THE AMIR. 383

Khtn, Miihomed HGss6n Khbn, Arz Begi, Zerln KhAn, and NBzir Dilhwar. Hij i Khbn, who had previously been sent on a miasion to Mk Alam K h h of Biijor, and who had returned reporting that he had settled everything, was despatched again in that direction for the purpose of invading, in conjunction with the S j o r and Momand levies, the districts of the DoAbeh, and Hashtnagar, north of the Kiibal river.

No sooner had the preparations to resist Sikh aggression been determined upon, than it was follow- ed by one of the usual attempts to remove the a& by assassination. At midnight some one introduced himself into the apartment of Ghour Kinchini, one of the amir's wives. Not finding him there the assas- sin went to that occupied by the mother of lkI&hom- ed Akbar K h h . There alike unsuccessful, he found his way into the chamber of Azzh K h h , Ghilji's sis- ter, where Dost Miihomed K h h was sleeping. For- tunately, he was aroused, and calling upon a kaniz, or slave-girl, to bring a light, the villain made off, con- triving, however, to carry off some articles of appa- rel, and six hundred rupees in value of trinkets from the apartment of Ghour ~ i n c h k i . In the morning the am'u consulted with Mirza Sami K h h and MGlla Momind Khiin, and arrested several indivi- duals of the BQIa His&, while he removed the katwlil from office. Nothing farther transpired, and the prisoners were released ; but the amir publicly as- serted he knew the instigators, and would settle his

384 ATTACK BY HARI SINGH.

accounts with them when the expedition ter- minated.

Subsequently SGltan Mihomed Khan complain- ed that assassins had been sent by MBhomed Akbar K h h on several occasions to Peahdwer; and i t proved that he had not complained without reason ; and so closely was he beset that he never moved abroad but in daylight.

Mima Sami K h h , with the amir's sons, marched into Khaibar, and one circumstance leading to an- other, they advanced to the castle of JamrGd, when becoming bold by the non-appearance of Harf Singh, a cannonade was commenced upon one of its firces. In the course of two or three days the weak defences of the place were destroyed, and the Afghins were congratulating themselves on its be- ing about to fall into their hands when, on the morning of the 30th April, Hari Singh unexpectedly attacked their position, and for the moment carried all before him.

The divisions of NGb Amir AkhGndztda, Miilla Momind K h h , and Zerin K h h were broken and dispersed, being those upon which the attack bore, while their leaders were severally wounded. The unattacked divisions dispersed and fled, leaving the amir's sons, and the Nawib Jab& -Khan on the field, with a few individuals adhering to them. Mb- homed Haidar Khan, a boy, who had never before seen battle, retired weeping. MEihomed Afzil Khan, who, at the head of two t h o k n d men, was sta-

ATTACK BY HARI SINGH. 385

tioned on the plain, alone stood firm, and kept his troops together. Had Singh, in the first instance, appeared to have the intention of attacking this body, but, observing its steady attitude, suddenly wheeled round, and fell upon the divi~lions ranged amongst the small eminences skirting the plain. The am'lr's sons, and the Nawfib J a b k K h h , while scorning to fly, were in kvines and hollows sepa- rated from each other, unconscious of what was p h n g around them, and fearful, lest they might be detected, to ascend the eminences to ascertain. Fourteen of the Afghh guns had been captured, and the Sikhs, supposing the victory gained,. com- mitted themselves in pursuit, when they were ,<met by a large body of horse under Shamsadin K h b , who, not prertent at the attack, was on his w@y to the field ; nor did the flight and discomfiture of his friends induce him to check his progress. Very many of the troops who had fled without combat also returned with him, and the Sikhs in turn be- came fugitives.

While these events were passing a small party of Sikh horse galloped over an eminence into the hollow where Miihomed Akbar Khin was placed, and, of necessity, a conflict took place. The noise brought his brother, Mghomed Akram K h h , from a contiguous ravine, where no one knew he was, and together making up about one hundred men, they repulsed the Sikh party, and M6homed Ak- bar Khln, assisted by two or three of those near

VOL. 111. ' . 2 c

him, killed one of his infidel foes, on which account he arrogated to himself high credit. The Naw* J a b k K h h and Stijah Dowlah K h b had also united, and on the arrival of Shamsadin K h b made a successful charge, and recaptured a couple of gum. Mihomed Akbar K h h , who detested both of them, hastily came and struck a spear into the ground, thereby attributing to himself the merit of the afhir. At this crisis Hari Singh, who might or might not have been able to remedy the confusion which had spread amongst his troops, received a fatal wound, and was carried off the field. The %khs retired under the walls of JamrGd, and entrenched them- selves. MBhomed Akbar KhAn, elate at the sudden and happy change in the fortunes of the day, pro- posed, possibly without intending so much, to march upon Peshiiwer ; when wrza Sami K h b appeared, and crying that his prayers had been accepted, and his good name' preserved intact, entreated the boast- ing young man to be satisfied with what was done.

As soon as the action commenced the m'm had secreted himself in some cave, or sheltered recess, where, in despair, he sobbed, beat his breast, tore his beard, and knocked his head upon the ground ; now, he asserted, that he had been offering up prayers, and was willing it should be believed they had been efficacious. The results of the struggle were, that the Afghbs recovered eleven of the fourteen guns captured from them; they also pos- sessed themselves of three belonging to the Sikhs,

DEATH OF HARI SINOH. 387

who, in like manner carried off the aame number belonging to the AfghBns. Amongst the latter was a very large cannon, much prized, whose fel- low, the Zabar Zang, was at Ghazni ; Harl Singh, remarking its superior dimensions, had directed it to be borne off upon ita capture. The Afghbe had really not much to boaat of in thie action, although MQhomed Akbar Khhn plumed himself on a transcendent victory. The Sikhs scarcely acknowledged defeat, but their loss in the person of their chief was irreparable. That gallant leader expired, and was burnt the evening of the action. Hari Singh was possessed of great personal intre- pidity, but, whether from want of judgment or from undervaluing his foes, had frequently been placed in critical situations, and at length fell a victim to his temerity. H e held the A f g h b in bitter contempt, ever affirming that they were dogs and cowards, and that be knew them well.

Born in the aame town as Ranjit Singh, he had been his playmate in boyhood; in mature age he became the most faithful and able of his chieftains. It is said, the ruler of Lahore was seriously affected by the tidings of his death. After the action grave disputes a m e between Miihomed Akbar KhAn and the NawAb Jab& K h b on the propriety of moving forward; but ere they could agree power- ful reinforcementa had asrived for the Sikhs, which compelled the Afghbs precipitately to retire. The retreat was effected by night, and, as usual on such

2 c 2

388 ALTERCATION.

ocmiona, as soon as the signal was given the army bazilr was plundered. On reaching Daa, Miho- med Akbar K h h wished to pass the troops under review, to prove that he had retreated in perfect order,-neither dieliking, perhaps, to show that he could manage better than his father had done, nearly similarly situated. Some few of his rela- tives, and of the chiefs, paraded before him. The greater part refused to do so; which increased the animosity, already too prevalent, in the camp. At this place, also, high words passed in the darbib, between Miihomed Afiil K h h and AbdGl Samad ; the former placed his hand on his sword, when his brother, Mihomed Akbar K h h , said to him, in Pashts, " Let the dog alone, he has often addressed more abusive language to myself." The profligate Persian, with his battalion, had been ordered to join Miihomed Akbar K h h , and should have reached before the battle, but he had lingeied on the- road, and contrived to arrive after it had been fought. In the subsequent trifling operations, he was observed to be so partial to the covering of shClas, or ravines, that he acquired, in witty al- lusion to the Persian words of command, dosh fang, kc., the appropriate sobriquet of ShCla-fang. From D&a the A f g h h retired to the skirts of the Safhd Koh, Mihomed Akbar K h h locating his troops. along the valley of Ghaplsr, while he fixed himself at the head of it, in Aghhm. The Naw&b JabBr K h h retired to Tgtang.

W e have stated that HAji K h h had been de- spatched towards Blijor, it being intended that, in cooperation with the Biijor and Momand troop& he should make a diversion in the DoAbeh north of the KAbal river. In that district waa a castle, held by a small Sikh garrison, and the Sirdk L6nah Singh, with a thousand horse and two gulis, had been detached for its protection. HAji K h h found himself in command of five or six thousand men, including his own' retainers, being attended by Mir Alam K h h of Biijor, SAdat K h h the . Momand chief, and Saiyad Biibii J&n of Peshatt, in Khonar. Procrastinating amongst the hills, Ldnah Singh sent him a letter, stating that report gave him credit for being a great warrior, if so, -and he had come expressly, as he avowed, for kazzilh (or to devote himself in the cause of re- ligion,)--why keep under the shelter of the hills.' !We Sikh recommended him to advance upon the plain, where his object was likely to be attained. On another occasion, L6nah Singh sent a man to see what kind of a person Hkji K h h was, whether fat or lean, tall or short. The k h h exhibited himself, and then pointing to a man in amour sitting by his side, said, m i s is Mir Alam K h h , of Biijor. He next showed the fellow SELdat K h h Momand, and Saiyad Bib6 J h of Khonar, with others, and dismissed him to report what he had seen. While this farce was playing Miihomed A k h r K h h arrived at JamrGd, and learning that

no assistance had been given to M Singh, saw there was just a chance of effecting a decisive impression upon Peshbwer, and.deeiring the k h b to leave objects of minor consideration in the Doiibeh, earnestly besoug4t him to c m the Kiibal river and join him. HGi Khh, who had a game of his own, wrote to the am'u that Miihomed Akbar K h h had requeeted him to cross-the river, but how could he do so with an enemy in front, and until he had exterminahd him. Ultimately, advancing on the plain, the Afghilns encamped close to the castle, under which Unah Singh was entrenched. !We Momands attacked the ramparts, and it is believed would have forced them had not HAji K h h compelled them to desist. During the aombat one of U d S i h ' s guns burst, which enabled the k h h to write to Ubal that he had won a great victory, killing one hundred to one hundred and fifty Sikhs, and capturing a gun. The annihilation of Unah Singh was promised. His next letter was dated from h d & b , end announced that, influenced by letters from SGlt6n Mihomed K h h , the BAjor, Khonar, and Yusaf Zai chiefs had abandoned him, and that he had no alternative but to retire with S d e t K h h Momand. The amir was sorely incensed, and the k h h was next beard of at Jeliilabiid, where he was urging M& homed Akbar K h h to send him and Abdd Samad to Jamriid, where they would renew hostilities. As the Sikhs now mustered nearly forty thousknd

men at PeahLwer, it is difficult to imagine what the khh's object may have been, unless to have inducted them into the d e y of Jeliilabid, SGltgn MQhomed K h h , with his brother, Ku Mihomed K h h , during these operations were both at Lahore, in attendance upon the M6hiiriijk When apprised of what was passing, they sent letters to Hkji K h b and Mh A h , with all the presents they had re- eeived from Ranjit Singh for themselves, and in- stantly set out for Peshhwer. Popular rumonr acl cneed H&ji K h h of receiving a sum of money from U n a h Singh ; it was possible, but not likely. Of his treachery no one doubted.

The day of the degradation of the notorious AbdGl Samad at length drew nigh. Perceiving his influence had declined, and that his dishonesty had become known, he resolved by some manoeuvre to recover himself, or by some desperate deed to free himself from embarrassment. His battalion was .in arrears of pay for some months, and he profited by the circumstance to put into play a

- stratagem, in which the men were to perform a part. As concerted between AbdLl Samad and his captains, they arose, cut down their tents and his own, and on foot led him to Chahb B&gh, in their way to KtlbaI, where they said they were going to clamour for their pay. Mihomed Akbar KhAn, with ra few horeemen, rode after them, striving to prevail upon them to return. Four llhots were fired at him, when he retired. The

392 ABDUL BAMAD'S DEQRADATION.

battalion continued its route ; on reaching Gan- damak AbdGl Samad was seated upon a horse. When they neared Kilbal he was again made to walk, and the battalion finally marched to the meadow in front of the amps palace, where they placed their vagabond commander. on the summit of a mound. His friends pitched a tent over him, with the amir's pe&saion. Aga Saiyad Mihorned, the amvs sandGkdiir, sent to the battalion, was unhorsed and maltreated..

Towards evening AbdG1 , Samad was eummoned to the amir's presence. H e went, accompanied by twenty of his men, armed with carbines. The a&

had prepared for any violent attempt, by placing a party of Afghhs at the head of the stair-tme lead- ing to his apartment, with orders to allow no one but AbdGl Samad to enter. When the fellow had passed, his followers made a vain effort to force a passage; two or thee of them were wounded and all were despoiled of their arms. Some were secured, others fled. Amongst the former was one who had fired upon Maomed Akbsr K h h , and he was or- dered to be hanged forthwith. AbdGl Samad pre- tended that his battalion had revolted on account of arrears of pay. The captains a f f i e d , that they had 'merely obeyed his own orders, and had done what h e suggested to them. Ismael K h h , Mervi, the amir's miraor, becoming guarantee, he was suffered to go to the house of one of his disso- lute companions, called ShAh S f i b , in the Arabah.

INTERVIEW WITH THE AMIR 393

An inventory was taken of his effects, which were afterwards confiscated, and he sought refuge in the house of K h h Sherin K h h , in Chhdol. Ulti- mately he left Kiibal and reached Bokh6n-1, where his impudence and dexterity enabled him to secure a tolerable footing. There were many curious circum- stances attending his dismissal, which I ne~er~right- -1y understood. I t is almost certain that after his disgrace the amir's ruling lady sent him a rich dress, worked by her own hands.

When the army marched from Jelilabbd towards ~ h ~ i b a r I returned to Kiibal, and the ax& hear-

\ ing of my arrival sent for me, and I breakfasted with him. He was very civil, and laughingly said, that he did not think the nawiib would be so anxi- ow to pass the next winter at Tiitang as he cer- tainly never would have gone there this year had he dreamed of what was to happen. When the tidings of the engagement a t J d d reached I congratulated him, not on the victory which had been gaibed, as I was not quite sure of its nature, but that his five sons had escaped accident. He noticed my qualified congratulation, but received '

it cordially, and I sat with him during the day. Subsequently I had business which took me to M i a Sami K h h , at A g h h , under the SaEd Koh at Je161ab6dY and &timating to the amir my intention of visiting the camp, he approved of it. On reaching A g h h I had an interview with M& homed Akbar K h h , who dilated on the recent

304 XAHOMED AKBAR KHAN.

vidory, and particularly explained that it was not owing to the wound of Hari Singh. M h a Sami f ( h h had previously assured me that the sirdk had become so mtelligent that it was a pleasure to converee with him, while in valour he s u r p d Rbatarn. He prayed x& to turn the conversation on military affiirs and battlee, averring that the sirdh delighted to commune on such topics. M6- homed Akbar K h h was affecting a little ceremony and state more than usual, particularly civil, and I was considered his immediate guest so long as I remained in camp. Desiring to see the correspon- dence which had paseed between the sirdG and the Sikhs subsequent to the wtm~t, a variety of letters I were read to me; amongst them was one addreseed I

to Ranjit Singb, informing the old r6j6 that they knew Hari Singh occupied the castle of JamrGd without his orders, therefore they did not mean to make war upon the Mghiiriijii when they marched to Jarnriid. Harf Singh was their only enemy. They would have been sstisfied with the demolition of the obnoxious castle, but the sirdh attacked

- them, and of the consequences the Mgbh6jsi was aware. The moment they heard of the arrival of ShWdii Noh Nihiil Singh (the Miih6riijCs grand- son), they retired ; as, with reference to the chances of war, exemplified in the fate of Hari Singh, it would have been considered a great misfortune, (and what was impossible !) that a similar mident should beM a prince so dear to the M6hhGj& I

ADVENTURE AT JIQDILLIK. 395

eould not forbear to smile at the display of such delicate sympathy, which Mirza S a d Khftn ob- eerving, put hie arms around me, and eaid, " Mas- son Siihib, you are a lion. We were obliged to come back, because we had nothing to eat. This is what we write to Ranjit Singh." The come- apondence altogether was a queer one, and Miiho- med Akbar K& directed my attention to be espe- cially directed to a letter add& in his name to the young Sikh Sh&Ada; he said that it was Umaezar&," or very delightful. I t was so, but I do not now remember much of it.

From A g h h I crossed the country to Tiitasg, where I found the Nawhb Jab& KhAn. On ask- ing him whether I should congratulate him on the recent victory, he replied, " For God's sake, do not mention it." At this time news arrived from K h o w of the decease of Fati Miihomed K h b , the nawhb's father-in-law, which compelled that nobleman to make a journey to Khoner. I thire- fore started h r Krlbal, and reached Jigdillik. Be- ing well known here, I halted amongst the people of the place, who dwelt in tents, about a mile off the road, up the valley. In the evening, seated on the pinnaale of a moderately high mound, with one of my servants by my side, while on the o p posite side of the valley, about eighty or one hnn- dred yards distant, was a tree, with a rivulet flow- ing beneath i t ; I observed a man running, with a musket in his hand, and crying audibly, so that

396 RETURN TO KABAL.

we heard him, " Dk Feringhi I k di?" or Is the Feringhi gone? Briskly moving under the tree, he knelt, placed hie musket on the bank of the rivulet, ' imd deliberately took aim. I remarked, " That fellow means to fire." My servant replied, '' No, he can hardly mean it." " By heavens, he does!" and ae the words passed my mouth the shot came, striking about a foot beneath us. W e secured him before he had time to reload, which he made no offer to do, as now he. appeared quite stultified. Taking his musket from him, we led him to the tents, where he proved to be one Akram K h h , -a resident inhabitant there, and the youngest of three brothers. I sat up until midnight, in the hope he would reveal the instigator of the act, but both he and his brothers eaid that waa im- possible. The man was at my mercy, and had I reported the case to the amir he would undoubb edly have ordered his slaughter, even though he had been commissioned by himself, which, however, I did not suspect. Still, reasoning, there was little use in sacrificing the poor stupid fellow, when the per- son who prompted him would escape ; I dismissed him, with the recommendation not to try his hand at such experiments again. The next morning the three brothers went off, armed to the teeth, and I quietly pursued my road to KBbal.

In the middle of July M6homed Akbiir K h h , with the forces from Jeliilabiid, reached the city; and his arrival was honoured by a grand procession

DISMISSAL OF HAJI KHAN. 397

of the military. A vast deal of powder was ex- pended. Seated on the same elephant with him was MBhomed Osmiin K h h , who had not parti- cularly distinguished himself at Jarnrbd, where he restrained his men, willing to have fought, by cry- ing " Zentillk," or May his wife be divorced who draws a sword. Having at Diika p d e d his men before Miihomed Akbb K h h , it was inferred his compliance, in that instance, procured him so much distinction.

HAji K h h arrived with the rest, and in a day or two received orders to quit Kiibal. The k h h became a suppliant, placed his turban on the ground before the amir, and entreated that he might be allowed to remain in his service, even upon a re- duced salary. The amh waa inexorable; and the k h h left for Toba, with his horsemen, leaving hie wives and family, who were to follow him, in the Nawib Jab& KhWs castle at Chahtirdgh. Had the amh been capable of acting as the Vazh Fati K h h most likely would have done on such an occs- sion, he would have replaced the turban of Hi j i K h h upon his head, have raised him from the ground, and have forgiven him, while, instead of reducing his salary, he would have augmented i t some ten thousand rupees per annum. By such procedure there was a chance that he would have compelled the khiin to be honest for the future; if he failed he would then have been justified to proceed to extremities with him. The am'lr, no

398 HAJI KHAN AND THE BRITISH.

doubt, was m h i t e d by his continual treason, and argued, that if he were to put him to death, how- ever he might merit his fate, every one would join in condemning the masure, remembering that H&j$ K h h had been serviceable to him in his advanee ment to power. He therefore suffered him to de- part, although aware that he would combine with those hostile to him, and that he was a person capable of doing much mischief. It was a common remark, that the amir was so fearful of him, and desirous to be rid of him, that he would have dis- tributed a l&h of rupees in charity in the morning if sure that Hiiji K h h would have died in con- sequence a natural death during the day. Some time after, it was found that the k h h had made his way to Khdahhr, where the sird8i.s received him with aU honour.

The k h h was destined to play a prominent part in the proceedings of the British army in Afghh- i s th . Sir Alexander Burnes had no eooner reach- ed Bakar than one of the khh's agents was with him, and an advance of some thousand rupees w- cured his good-will and services. Sir Alexander told me of the fact, and I observed that, while he was worth the money, he was a great vilIain, and i t was necessary to be cautious with him. Before the army reached K h d a h b ~ y i KhHo joined it, and his defection preoipitated the retreat of the brother chiefs.

The long atay made at KAndahhr probably in-

PURSUIT OF DOST .UHOMTD KHAN; 399

duced the k h h to suspect that his new friends were not so invincible as he had supposed, and he meditated to pro& by their weakness, and therefore engaged in plots with Gul Miihomed, Ghilji, or GGIG, as commonly called. Having rewurae to his old game of p6dsW and vw'u, he proposed that GGlG should be pidshih and himself v h , and that they should set up on the spoil of the British army. While this arrangement waa concluded, HEji KhAn was the confidant of the unsuspecting envoy and minister, and nothing was done without his know- ledge and concurrence. The ah&, moreover, had rewarded his treachery by creating him wh-a,- dowlah, and Sirdlir Sirdiirh.

On the flight of Dost M6homed K h b from Arghandi, HAji K h h wlrs despatched, with Major Outram, in pursuit of him. The result waa, as might have been expected, for whether the k h h were competent or not to have seized his former chief, few persons but the envoy and minister would have despatched him on such m errand. The k b h on his return was seized and sent to India for his treason. I t would have been well for the unfor- tunate envoy and minister had he been: sent with him, for his lack of sense, and he deserved to have been. Dost Mfiomed KhAn since his capture, it is said, admits two errors in his career, one that he dismissed Captain Burnes, the other that he did not slay HAji K h h .

Very soon after the dep&ure of Hkji K h b the

400 McrrrvEs OP THE AMIR'S DISPLEASURE.

amir evinced symptoms of displeasure with N 6 b Am'r AkhGnMa, brother to Rashid AkhGnGda of Khdahtb, and employed under Shamsadin KMn, the h&am, or governor of G h d ; also with ZCrin K h h , B h k Zai, a colleague of the AkhGnd- zida. Their jiighim were resumed, and an inquiry instituted into the accounts of Nhib Amir. Z e r h K h h was ordered to leave Kibal, and a message was conveyed to him that if he remained longer than two days his effects should be confiscated. The DGrhni placed his hand upon his beard, -and swore, "that if he remained one day the amir was at liberty tb shave it and do what he pleased with it." Miiza Sami Khhi then was &nt to soothe and pacify him, and to induce him to stay. It was not understood at the time why the amir should have selected them two individuals for degradation or for insult, because, while justly angry with many others for their conduct in the action at JarnrGd, he had nothing to reproach them with on that w- count, as both had been severely wounded. The train of events developed the amWs secret motives, and it proved that his pretended harshness was but a m e to humble them, preparatory to taking the government of Ghazni from his nephew, Shamsadin K h h .

On the death of Amir Mghomed K h h the am'r assumed a control over the administration of Ghazni ; still the ancient officers were continued in

REMOVAL OF SHAMSADIN KHAN. 401

employment, and Shamsadin Khbn succeeded his father as governor. Amh Maomed KhWa widows, and their families, resided constantly in the citadel, and the governor of course generally made it his place of abode. Now the amir determined to re- move them altogether, to deprive Shamsadin of his government, and to place therein his son Maomed Haidar KhBn. The measure was entirely offensive to the several members of the family, who beheld in it another instance of the arnir's contempt of all family claims ; but they said very little, and Mk homed Haidar KhBn, after some slight demurring, was installed in his new government;

The sirdike of K h d a h h also regarded the step with aversion, and even remonstrated with the amir. They plainly saw that the policy of the amir would ultimately lead' him to KAndahh, and the occupation of Ghazni they regarded as a prelimi- nary measure. As' he would only trust his own sons, they were aware that they had a year or two of grace, until Shir JBn, now eleven or twelve years of age, should be held competent to replace Mihomed Haidar K h h at Ghazni, who would be commiesioned to Jeliilabgd, when MBhomed Akbar K h h , disengaged, would be brought to Khdahb , and established there. They well knew that they had hitherto escaped because he had no son that he could spare to take up their authority, and it did not accord with his views to confide in any other than a son.

VOL. 111. 2 D

402 THE AMIR'S EXULTATION. . The amb was so gratified with the induction of

his son into the fortress of G h a d that he publicly avowed his exultation, and remarked, that now he felt secure, and convinced that his government had firmly taken root.

CHAPTER XVII.

Interoourse between KIbal and India-Letters to Lord Auckland. -Announcement of Captain Burnes'e miseion.-Letters from Captain Wade.- Replies. - LG&a A kbar. - Farther letters from Captain Wade.-Replies.-Persian Envoy.-Rwmian let- tern.--M8homed S W e firmfi.n-H&ji Ibdhim's private letter. --Captain Wade's letters.-Kamber Ali's difficulties.-Khda- h b treaty. - Lieutenant Vektavich.-Mghomed HdssBn's ar- rival at KAba1.-Hie ridiculous convemtiona.-Letters from Captain Burned and Captain Wade.--Interview with the arnlr. -Favourable dispomtions of Ranjit Sib.-Night interview with the amir.-The nawlb'e counsel.-Lieutenant Pottingeis departure from K&bal.-Remarks on hie presence at Hertit.- Siege of Hertit.-The Qovernor-Oeneral's warning OR--Reaultr.

IN September of this year, 1887, Captain Alex- ander Burnes reached mbal, on a mimion from the Governor-general of 'India. As the consequences flowing from this diplomatic essay have been suflti- ciently eeriaus, it may be useful to revert to the causes which led to it and to its progrese, so far as my situation at Kkbal gave me the opportunity of observing.

It will have been noticed, that intercourse, more or less, had snhisted between the authoritiee at Kdbal and the political agent at LGdiBna; more- over, that Lord William Bentinck had been rsccw-

f2D2

404 LETTERS TO LORD AUCKLAND.

tomed to send letters to Dost MAhomed KhBn. During the interregnum of Sir Charles Metcalf such intercourse had been interrupted, and Captain Wade was reduced to frame excuses that the letters from Kilbal were not answered. In the winter of 1835-6 the unofficial mhzas attendant upon Ab- dG1 G h i b KhAn at Lbd iha had reported, as they said, by Captain Wade's desire, that the British government could not treat with the B h k Zais in consequence of their dissensions with each other. In the spring following, it became known at Kbbal that a new Governor-general had arrived in India, and nearly at the same time a letter from the m'mas euggested, on the part of Captain Wade, that a letter. should be addressed to him from KPhal. It had been no pleasant task for me to reply to the remonstrances I was obliged to hear respecting the uncourteous withholding of replies to the amir's letters, and when I heard of Lord Auckland's arrival at Calcutta I told Mima Sami K h h that he might probably now write with a better chance of success. Whether he would have written or not I cannot tell, but as Captain Wade's suggestion was to the same effect, I of course sup- ported it, and it was agreed to despatch letters of congratulation to his lordship. They were written in the usual flowery style, and sent OK

In October 1836 the amir received letters from the Governor-general, informing him, in reply t o his communications, that a mission would be de-

LETTER FROM CAPTAIN WADE. 405

puted to him, and letters from Captain Wade in- structed us that Captain Burnes was to conduct it. The letter from Captain Wade to myself on this occasion, I give entire, as best explaining the nature and objects of the mission.

cc Liidihna, 30th September, 1836. " SIB,

" A Qasid of Nawslb Jabbar K h k accompanies your own, with letters from the Governor-general and myself to the nawiib and his brother, the a d r , the purport of which I hope will be satisfactory in some degree, if not altogether to them. His lord- ship has determined to depute Captain Burnes on a commercial mission to the countries bordering on the Indus, with a view to complete the re-opening of the navigation of that river. He will proceed, in the first instance, to Hydrabad, to negotiate for further facilities for the trade in the territory of the a m h of Sindh; whence he will proceed to Mit- hadcot, where I am instructed to meet him; and he and Lieutenant Mackeson, in concert with my- self, are to devise a convenient point on the Indus for the establishment of an entrepbt, and annual fair ; after settling which, Captain Burnes will proceed up the river to Attak, where he will disembark and proceed, via" Peshiiwer, to KabG1, thence to Qanda- har, and Ptia" the Bolan Pass, to Shikarpur, and back' again to Hydrabad. The mission is declared to be strictly of a commercial character, and the object of it is to collect commercial information, and to*

406 J~XTRACT PROM DESPATCH.

make known to the merchants residing beyond the Indus the measures which have been adopted with a view of re-establishing the trade by that river, Circumstances may arise to require my continued presence here ; in which event Lieutenant Mackeson will meet Captain Burnes at Mithankot, and be directed by me to accompany that officer during his paseage through the Sikh possessions. In your reports, eubsequent to intelligence of these measures reaching KAbal, it is desirable that you ehould note how it is received, and any measures that the sm'u and hie advisers may contemplate in con- sequence.

" I am, sir, &c. &c. kc., " So. C. M. WADE,

" Political Agent." " To C. Ilbasson, Eq., &c. &a. kc., KkbbGl:'

From this Ietter it will not fail to be observed that there waa little notion entertained at thii time of convulsing Central Asia, of deposing and setting up kings, of carrying on wars, of lavishing treasure, and of the commission of a long train of crimes and follies.

The Governor-general's communications were re- ceived with cordiality and satisfaction, which I reported to Captain Wade.

In a succeeding despatch from that officer, dated 11th November, 1836, was t.he following extract :-

" It might be important to ascertain if the letters

alleged to have been written to the amir from his brothers and others at Qandahar, were actually fabri- cations or not, and what had transpired between Mihomed ShPh of Persia, and the envoy from Qan- dahar to his court, regarding the reported intention of the Persians to advance during the ensuing season against Henit."

In a letter of 31st December, 1836, Captain Wade wrote : - " With reference to the items of intelligence contained in your letter of the 30th of August last, regarding the designs of Miihomed ShAh against Herit, I am desired to observe that, by information received from other quarters, the Governor-general of India, in council, is led to be- lieve that there may be more foundation than is supposed by you for the rumour relative to the chiefs of Qandahar ; and as his lordship, in council, is anxious to be kept constantly informed of the affairs of Afghhisth, I have been directed to call on you to furnish me with the earliest intelligence of all important occurrences in that quarter, for the immediate information of government."

The loss of my manuscripts and papers at Kalh in 1840, incapacitates me from presenting to the public copies of my correspondence with Captain Wade for the period in which I filled the situation of agent at Kbbal, which I would have gladly done, since Sir John Hobhouse has the modesty to make me an accessory in the evil measures so lauded by him. What my opinions were, may readily be

408 EXTRACTS PROM LETTER8.

learned from the letters and extracts I have quoted, and may quote. I n reference to this letter of 31at December 1836, the recovery of a letter-book a t KalPt allows me to insert part of my answer to it.

let February, 1857.

" Of course I have not the opportunity of know- ing from what other channels the Governor-general of India in council is led in some degree to credit such rumours, but I have observed that the public prints of India have, during the last twelve months, teemed with the most fallacious statements and absurd rumours relative to Mdhomed Sh& and the A f g h b countries, which must necessarily have had origin in some quarters, but that they were due to pure invention, or a desire to mislead, seem proved by subsequent events having shown their falsity.

"That Maomed ShAh may entertain designs upon Heriit is most probable, but the tenor of all information would lead to the supposition that his means are not so matured as to allow him to march on that place."

I may be excused to point out that a Persian paper, called the " LGdi6.m Akbar," wae printed a t Lfidiha, under the direction of Shamat Ali, the confidential mfinahi of Captain Wade. Items of intelligence frequently appeared in this paper, cer- tainly never put together by the mfinshi; and as it was industriously forwarded to Kabal, I was often annoyed, for the statements regarding Dost

LUDIANA AKBAR 409

Miihomed KhAn were not only firlse, but so per- sonal and insulting that they were not innocent, and that chief, while he would indignantly reject the paper, when some one officiously presented it, was wont to observe, that I wrote the lies about him. The evil corrected itself in time, for the statements were so egregiously absurd that it was admitted I should not write such nonsense, and the crime was placed on the right shoulders. I n consequence of the unfounded tales and rumours I could not but notice in the Calcutta p in@ I wrote to a literary friend at that presidency, asking if he knew how they originated; and although I received no direct reply to this particular question, subsequent issues of the paper, in which they ap- peared, revealed, that they were borrowed from the " DeIhi Gazette," and that they were transIations from the " L G d i h Akbar." However, as Mihomed Shkh was represented, about this time, to be carry- ing fire and sword through AfghAnisth, the govern- ment grew alarmed, and applied to their officers on the frontiers for intelligence; and owing to this panic I wtb indebted, I prermme, for the above letter from Captain Wade.

Before my reply had reached, Captain Wade would seem to have suspected he was searching for a mare's nest, for in a letter of 1st February he writes, "The reports regarding the intercourse alleged to have taken place between the B M

Zais and the King of Pereia, and the advance of the latter on H6rat, are certainly too vague to justify any confidence in them; at the same time, in the present state of sffaire, it might not be alto- gether right, on our part, to neglect the means of being well informed of any political events of in- terest that may be passing on the frontiers of Persia and Turkistan."

In a letter, dated 7th April, he replies to mine of 1st February, and the extracts I give from it are curious, on more accounts than one.

"Copies of such parts of your letters as have related to the supposed designs of the King of Persia, and the overtures said to have been made to that monarch by the reigning members of the B h k Zai family, for the expulsion of the Sikhs from their count.ry, have been forwarded without delay to government, as well as a copy of your report regarding the of Dost Mihomed ' K h h to repel the Sikhs from the occupation of Jamriit.

" If the amir seriously contemplated such a step I

as the last, he has lost the favourable opportunity , of carrying i t into effect, which the late assembly of the greatest part of the M6hkhj6's troops at Amratsir, to join in the celebration of Kour Nao Nahiil Singh's marriage, presented. No sooner

. have these festivities passed than h j i t Singh has ordered his forms to move on Peshhwer, and their concentration in that quarter will, no doubt, render

DELU$lVE REPORTS. 41 1

it extremely difficult for the amir to resist their encroachments.

" I entirely concur in what you state regarding the delusive nature of the reports which are con- stantly appearing in the newspapers, on the subject of the designs of Miihomed Shiih ou Afghbistib; yet, however fallacioue they may appear to be to near observers, there are not wanting interested persons to mislead the shdh with false hopes of success in an expedition to that country, and, as it would appear from your letters of the 20th September, 13th October, and 7th and 30th No- vember last, that Dost Miihomed K h h , or some of the Persian party in Kablil, had been e n d m vouring to open a correspondence with the King of Pemia, having for its object an offensive and defensive alliance with that ruler, the impression received by government would seem to have had some foundation.

"Accounts have lately arrived confirmatory of the report, that appeare to have reached you. by the way of B o k h h of the entire defeat of the Persians by the TGrkman tribes, a result which I fully expected. I t is easier to speculate than to calculate on the facilities to Persia of carrying her arms into Afghiinisdn, so long as the British government maintains its place among the nations of Europe and the east."

In my Lord Auckland's memorable Simla decla- ration one of the imputed crimes to Dost Mihomed

412 REPLIES.

K h h is, that he profited by the opportunity of the presence of the Sikh troops at Amratsir to cele- brate the marriage of the M&&iijGs grandson, to attack the detachment at Peshiiwer. W e here find Captain Wade rebuking the amir for neglect ing the occasion.

I hold this letter farther valuable, as demon- strating the little value and importance attached by me to Persia, or Persian intrigues. I t is fortu- nately in my power to give extracts from a letter of mine, dated 2nd February, which, while clearly setting forth my sentiments, will also show that I was alive to the interests of the Indian govern- . ment, and not indifferent to the designs of other powers.

cc I believe that the Government of India may be confident that no Persian emissaries have yet appeared beyond Heriit ; the cidevant zirghar (gold- smith) of KBndahar, and such people as AbdGl Samad at KabAl, who, without being authorized, talk largely on public a i r s to increase their own importance, I presume are not to be considered such.

"While the various reports circulated in these countries the last two years, such as the arrival of Miihomed ShBh at Meshed, or its neighbour- hood, with an impossible amount of forces, were not entitled to belief at the time they were current, --and experience has since proved them to be fake, -reports at times have reached here, of some in-

tended operations upon Khiva from Mazanderan, which looks like acting in concert with, or at the suggestion of, the power whose vessels can com- mand the Caspian. Among these rumours one has been frequently repeated, that the sh&h was felling the forests of Mazanderan. This may be true, or not; but if he could be persuaded to destroy the best defences of that province, it would, of course, be so much the more open to invasion. The conquest of Orgmj by e i h Pmsica m Russia is probably not the easy rnadtm some sappose; but if the latter power have any designs upon it, i t

. would greatly facilitate their chances of success by engaging the former to co-operate in the at- tempt, while both powers, it must be conceded, have tolerably good reasons for desiring the d e struction of the Orgenj state. The government of India must certainly be in receipt of constant intelligence from Tehrh, where such plans would probably be partly concocted, and must become known, and perhaps it might be subject of reflec- tion, whether it ought not to be determined before- hand what course would be best to. be adopted, in the event of a possible contingency; for one of the neceseary consequence0 of the occupation of Khiva by the Russians, or by the Persians under their influence, would be, the distribution of their agents in all countries intermediah between them and British India"

In July of this year it became known at KAbal

that Mdhomed HG&n, who had carries a letter from the amh to Mihomed Sh& had returned to Khdahiir, in company with one Kamber Ali, a GhGl6m ShAh, and the bearer of letters and presents to the B h k Zai chiefi.

In a letter of 8th July, I noted the circum- stance to Captain Wade :-" A day or two after I last addressed you, and when I waa still at Tiittang, I received an intimation from KAbal that Kamber Ali, the Persian envoy, had reached Khdahiir, and that AbdGl Samad's property had been confiscated by the amh, and that he had taken refuge in the house of K h h Sherin K h h at ChAndol. Having o m i o n to addrees Captain Burnes at that time, I forwarded a copy of the communication, and r e quested bim, when he wrote you, to transmit it, or a copy, for your information. I proceeded im- mediately to KAbal, and in course of two or three days lettere were received from Maomed HGss6n, who accompanies Kamber Ali, copies of which I have also the pleasure to forward with thia commu- nication."

A little while before this, and previously to my departure from KAbal for Jeliilabikl, tbe amir in- formed me of a letter sent by hie other agent, Hkji Ibriihim, the brother of AbdGl Samad, and pur- porting to be from the Russian envoy and minister plenipotentiary, Count Simonich. As it wm forth- coming at the moment of AbdGl Samad's d e p d a - tion, most people supposed it to be a kbrication,

RUSSIAN LETFERS. 416

and the am'u evidently leaned to the same opinion. As he had sent it to M i a Sami Khln, I could form no judgment upon it, but when I saw the h a at Agham he showed it to me, and wished to give me a copy of it, but, aware that Captain Burnes would shortly arrive, I affected to treat it as a matter of no importance, as I had done with the amir, and observed, that it could be shown to Captain Burnea when he came. I, however, re- ported the matter to Captain Wade.

" The letter is written on pink-coloured paper ; has no signature, but a eeal stamped on it, with a legend, as M'm Sam5 K h b reads it, 'Graf Ivan Simo- nich, Wazir MGkhtahar B6hi RGssi.' The letter is addreseed to Amir Doet Miihomed K h b , and states that H&ji Ibriihim, after hie dismissal by the sh&h, waited on the writer; that favourable reports of the am'u and the Afghhs had frequently reaohed him ; and that he was their well-wisher. But for the aeal, and H&ji Ibriihim's explanation, there is nothing in the letter to judge who wrote it ; and, if genuine, it would seem intended to give weight to the shWs firmh. Of neither, however, has any notice been taken."

I should have remarked, that Kamber Ali des- patched from Khdah6r a firm&, addressed to Dost Mdhomed Kh&n, notifying to him tbat his petition had been received, and that His Majesty the King of Kings had enrolled him amongst his faithful subjects.

Never was a man more enraged than the amir;

he swore that he had sent a letter, not a petition, and vowed dire vengeance on Miihamed Sh& not even intending to spare the graves of his fore- fathers, or of Nbdir. There was hearty mirth d i s played by the sGnis of Kkbal, who thought their ruler deserved such a firmiin, and they rejoiced that his face had been blackened.

A translation of the above letter from Count Simonich is given as enclosure 1 in No. 2, in page 6, of the Correspondence relating to Afghhisth, presented to Parliament by her Majesty's command. Succeeding it, and designated as enclosure 2 in No. 2, is a letter to the amir from HAji Ib f i im.

The latter document was intended by the H&ji to be read in darb6.r. ~ 6 c o m ~ a n ~ i n ~ it, was a very long one for the amir's private information, which, of course, neither the amir nor Mima Sami Khh would wish to be made public. However, at the time of its arrival, having heard of i0, I contrived to get a copy, from which I forwarded other copiea both to Captain Wade and to Captain ' ~ u m e s , and I presume one or the other must have sent it on to government. To have published this letter would not have accorded with the views of her Majesty's ministers, as it would have demonstrated both the character of the miserable agents whose proceedings have been made the pretence of so much alarm, and would besides show how ridiculous were the apprehensions to be entertained from Persia. I have still a copy, but it is too long to be

CAPTAIN WADE'S LETTERS. 417.

introduced ; however, amonget many other things, the H&ji sorely complains that Miihomed HGsebn waa provided with a better letter than he waa ; ex- plains how the sh&h was well beaten by the TGrkoT mane ; and details Miihomed HGss6n's bebaviour i s the camp at S h h G d , where, on the occaaion of a review of the troops, he took occasion to lecture the sh&. The monarch was too dignified to reply; but when he withdrew, HAji Mima A g h h i , the prime minister, eaid to Mghomed H d n : Fellow, who are you that presume to admonish the s h h ? You are not an envoy, but the bearer of a letter. It is mid, that the A f g h h are asses, and now we know it, or they would not have sent such a fellow se you here.

Captain Wade, in a communication, dated 10th June, 1837, wrote : " The nature of the information contained in your letter regarding the communicck tions received by Dost Miihomed K h h from Per- sia, is highly interesting, and would have M y au- thorized you in making an immediate report, ag there seems great reason to believe that both HAji Ibri ihh and Miihmned HGeaCn WBTB accredited with letters to the Persian court, in some fmm, from the amh, though it may now be convenient to him to deny that they were acting on his authority ; and' much allowanoe may be made for the importance which has been attached to these envoys in Persia from the probable intrigues and exaggerations ia which they have no doubt been indulging."

VOL. RI. 2 R

In a letter of 29th August, 1837, Captain Wade wrote : " The Go~ernor-general, in council, to whom E have considered it my ,duty to submit every part of your letters which relate to the politics of that quarter, is anxious to receive every information on these subjects, and I feel assured that you will not relax in your vigilance and activity in keeping me re+& informed of passing events, at a juncture when it is of the highest consequence to the British government that I shauld possess every means of forming a correct opinion. In a despatoh, which I lately received from government, adverting to the interesting nature of the information that I had

. communicated from yon, his lordship in council seemed deeirous that you should continue to report, without delay, every event of intereet ; I beg, there- fore, that your despatches may be more frequent than before."

On thel6th September, 1837, Captain Wade wrote: <' The new proofs yon have afforded of your zeal and intelligence, in the performance of your specid duty of keeping me regularly informed of passing events in that quarter, continues to engage the fa- vourable notioe of the Governor-general in council, and I trust that your continued industry and discri- mination may secure for you a continuance of the favour of a liberal and discerning government

fi Ymr report of the impression at KBbal as to the reply that is likely to be given to Kamber Ali KhAn, is in coincidence with the &.or& preju*

and true policy of the Afghhs, - Dost Mahomed Khh's red object in laying his grievancis at the foot of his Persian majesty's theone, and the causes which gave rise .to it, are obvioui. An opportunity ie now afforded to the am'u of removing those came by conciliating the Sikhs, who are ready to bring their quarrels with him to 'an amicable adjustment, on reasonable terms, in accordance with our wieh for a mutual state of peace."

Captain Wade wrote, in a letter. of 13th October, I

1837 : " The information contained in your eeverirl Reports, now acknowledged, is very acceptable. I am enabled to confirm the intelligence whioh. you mentioned having received of the deputation of Fatah K h h to the court of Persia, on -the part of Shahzadah Kamrh. - The envoy in question had arrived at Tdh*."

On the 19th October following I received Bn. in- timation from Captain Wade as foll~ws : " Until Captain Burnes shall have quitt'ed KabGl it ia con. sidered desirable t b t yon should be subject to hie orders, and discontinue your direct correspdndence with me, imd I beg that you will act accordingly, Captain Burnes will convey to me every week, if necessary, such in fod t ion a& he may collect either - by his own meahs or those of yourself." This Iettet waa in consequence of instructions from govern- ment, communicated by the then Mr. Secretarj Machaghten.

Captain Buimes had reached K 6 b l in September. R E 2

420 KAMBER ALI'S DIFFICULTIES.

The Persian, Kamber All, had not been allowed by the s i r d h of Khdahik to come on to KAbal: R a h h Dil K h h , one of them, avoiving, that if he left the city for that purpose his throat should be cut. The Persian had, moreover, disgraced himself by his reveIq and was finally in an unpleasant predica- ment. His companion, Miihomed H M n , had bor- rowed of him some eight hundred rupees, and, being asked for payment, devised a plan to evade it, and clear himself of his creditor-quite worthy of him. H e recommended Kamber A1I to feign sickness; and to keep his couch, while he went to Kiibat for some of Dost M6homed Khh 's people, with whom he would return and fetch him. MQhomed H G d n , after a violent dispute with Hliji K h h , now at Klndahdr, was permitted to leave, and, for- getting the celerity which he had promised to use, came leisurely on to Kilbal-was sent by the amir to the Nawkb Jab& Khh's house, and never thought of returning to Khdahik. Poor Kamber Al i in great terror, urged his departure upon the s i r d h particularly as he had received letters from Mhho- med Shhh's camp, directing his return if no good was to be done ; and the result was, that the sirddrs dictated a treaty, which is published with No. 3, l e t ter from Captain Burnes to W. H. Macmghten, Esq., page 6 of the Correspondence, and which Kam- ber Ali was too glad to seal, to get away. A child ought not to have been deceived by such a docu- ment, however Captain Runes may have chosen to

LIEUTENANT VEKTAVICH. ,421

attach importance to it, or the Indian government to have fallen into his error. Kamber Ali was so apprehensive of being waylaid on his return that be left all his property behind, and decamped " jer- rah," or slightly equipped, as Lieutenant Vektavich, who succeeded him, set out from the Persian camp. There is a remarkable cirqumstance attending the despatch of Lieutenant Vektavich, via. that he left the camp the morning after the return of Kamber Alf, seemingly in consequence of the latter's failure to reach Klibal, without which there is a possibility we might not have been honoured with the presence of the Cossack lieutenant. I have always doubted whether he came from St. Petersburgh, and whe- ther he passed through TChrh. If he did not, the silence of Count Simonich to Sir John McNeil, of which the latter complains, would be accounted for, as the count would at that time be ignorant both of his arrival in the camp before Herlit .and of his mission to Khbal. Attached to Kamber Ali waa a Saiyad Mob'h, who, it is mid, was in the receipt of a salary from Count Simonich as news-writer. I t is lamentable to be obliged to confem that such was the imprudent conduct of the British mission ; and so flagrant the reports in consequence circulated of their plans and intentions, that Russia, or any power, was justified to send persons to ascertain the nature of their proceedings-the principal ob- ject, I suspect, confided to Vektavich. That such a man could have been expected to defeat a British

422 MAHOMED HUSBEN AT KABAL.

mission is too ridiculous a notion to be entertained ; nor would his mere appearance have produced such a result had not the mission itself been set forth without instructions for its guidance, and had it not been conducted recklessly, and in defiance of all common sense and decorum.

Mtihomed HGdn on reaching Kkbal was, of course, introduced to the a d r , and gave an account so extraordinary of his sayings and doings in Persia that the chief and his nobles were obliged to reet their hands on the ground, while they were con- vulsed with laughter at the egregious lies he told. On points of business nothing could be gained from him, and the am&, confeesing his inability to make aught of his story, intrusted Mhza Sam5 KhfLp to question him ; but with no better success. The amir then regretted that he had taken the fellow from his doki2q or shop, in the bazir, and asked for a horse which MAhomed HQdn had written from Persia he had purchased for the amir, and which was so excellent that Niidir had never one equal to it in his stables. The elchf would fiin have denied the letter to be in his writing, but this k i n g proved beyond doubt, he remembered that the Turkomans had chapowed the shWs eamp, and carried off two hundred of his majesty's best horses. By the same accident he lost the noble animal procured for the amh. The amir slily quar- tered him upon the Nawhb Jab& K h b , the Ferin- ghi's friend, and occasionally sent for him, when

CAPTAIN BURNES. 428 inclined to be mirthful and to laugh at the mon- strous tales he related.

While Captain Bnrnes was on the way to Kiibal he had addlvssed a letter of replonstrance to the amir respecting the action at Jamred and the warfare carried on against the Sikhs. Captain Wade had done the eame; moreover, addressing Miihomed Akbar K h h . The latter waa not die- pleased Bt his letter, becsuse he was recommended having shown his ability in making war, now, to display it in making peace. But the amir was sorely incensed at the letter addressed to him by Captain Burnes. I had to bear the weight of his resentment, and he was absolutely savage.

I was always sorry that Kamber Ali had not found his way to KBbal, for not only must he have failed, but the proposals he waa instructed to make were of that nature that either he muet have suppressed them or it would have fallen to my I d to shield him from insult. But for the mismanage- ment of Captain Burnes he might have had the credit of doing as much for Vektavich.

As Captain Burnes drew near to Kibal he had written me, in a letter from Daka, dated the 4th of September: "The view which you have taken of PeshAwer being paased over to Sh l th Miihomed K h h , is to me very satisfactory. I am not without hope that we shall, in course of time, be able to work out this matter, but it would be presumption '

in the extreme to hope for it if certain circum-

424 TRE MAHARAJA'S PROPOSAL.

stances, which I shall unfold, did not lead me to have a well-grounded hope. I -should like to have the amfr's own views,-Sbltgn Mhhomed K h k s I have, and, if I am not deceived, an inkling of ,. those of Ranjeet Sing."

It will be observed, that Captain Wade, on the 16th September, informed me that the " Sikhs are ready to bring their quarrels with him to an amica- ble adjustment, on reasonable terms, in accordance with our wish for a mutual state of peace."

It appears that the miihbq6 was so confounded at the death of H b i Singh, that he informed Cap- tain Wade that he should be glad to give up Peshiiwer, preserving his pardah, or his honour. Nothing could be clearer than that the rniihib6j.jii was willing, at the request of the British government, to have abandoned his unjust conquest, - such re- quest would have saved him the appearance of having been forced to give it up, and have pre- served his pardah. Farther, no person acquainted with the state of the county and its relations, could have doubted but that he intended to re- store it to SGltan Maomed K h b , who d m d y enjoyed half the revenues-and from whom it wlu, taken. Its restitution to Dost Mghomed Khkn was a mmure neither to be conceived with any pro- priety nor to be demanded, with any justice, h m the miihbiijij8. The disposition of the rn&&&j& was so unhoped for, and so favourable to the mc- cesa of the mission that it is no lees extraordi-

INTERVIEW WITH THE N I R . 426

nary than unfortuhate that Captain Burnes should not have seen the matter in the light every one but himself did.

While Captain Burnes was at Peshgwer, where his pleasures and his buiiness detained him a few days, the amh began to imagine he might stay altogether there, and grew alarmed. H e had re- course to me in this juncture, and in a manner characteristic of him. Very late at night two of his men came to my house, saying, the amir wished to see me. I observed, the hour was unseasonable ; however, as I was still up, I would go. A t his house I was introduced to Mdhomed Akbar KhAn, who desired me to follow him, and led the way into a dark passage. I called to him to give me his hand, as I waa not a cat that could see in the dark, and he laughed, and did so. After groping our way through a variety of pamages, we came upon the roof of an apartment where were sitting the amh, Mima Sami Khfin,' M i Imfim Verdi, and N6ib Amir Akhbndzfida, around a far- nGs, or paper lanthorn. I seated myself by the amh, and Mihomed Akbar K h h 8at by the side of NBb Amh. The reasons for sending for me I found were to ascertain, first, whether Captain Burnes was really coming to Kfibal, and secondly, what were the objects of his mission. To the first point I answered, that Captain Burnes was deputed to him and not to Peshfiwer ; and to the last, that I could not tell him what I did not know myself.

426 ADVICE OF NAWAB JABAR KHAN.

That envoys were provided with inatructiorm (in. which, however, in this case I was wrong), with. which he would become acquainted when Captain B w e a arrived. The amir was scarcely aatiefied. However, as I had nothing to communioste to, clear up his doubts, he said, Burnes must plesse himself: and I, saying it was late, took leave, and was again escorted through the dark pawages by Mhhomed Akbar K h h . With reference to this interview I may remark, that the tone of the amir had been so high that the Nawfib Jab& K h h had recommended me to advise Captain Burn- to etay for a few days at Peshiiwer, as well as to send SGlth Miihomed K h h to Btijor; when, as he said, the amir would be reduced to call on me, with the K o r h in his hands, and implore me to persuade Captain Burnes to come on. This manaeuvre was a good Afghb one, and I doubt not would have brought the amir to the necessity ef being a suppliant, but I hardly thought it ho- nourable that it ehould be put in play by ourselves ; and while mentioning what the nawkb advised to Captain Burneg I stated that I thought it needles8 to act upon it, as matters without it were likely to go on smoothly. The amir very possibly heard of all this, and therefore sent for me.

In May of this year Lieutenant Eldred Pottin- ger arrived in Kfibal, and in July, without ac- quainting me, or even the Nawiib Jab& K h b , in whose house he resided, departed for Herit, by

the route of the Maehjiit. With reference to the extreme jealousy entertained by the Bdrak Zai chiefs of ShAh KBrqrh, I had to contend with a good deal of ill-will on this account, as they could not be persuaded that I was innocent of Lieutenant Pottinger's departure, or that it was not owing to a concerted plan between us. This officer had procured twelve months' leave of ab- sence, to explore the passes west of the Indus; and when his uncle, Sir Henry Pottinger, heard of his journey'to Her&, he wrote to me, desiring I would pare no expense in transmitting letters of real , poipting out that Be would be compro- mised with the government, who, at his solicit- ation, had granted the leave of absenke. I have always thought that, however fortunata for Lieu- tenant Pottinger himself, his trip to Herlit was an unlucky one for his country; the place would have been fought as well without him; and his presence, which would scarcely be thought scci- dental, though truly it was so, must not only have irritated the Persian king, but have served as a pretext for the more prominent exertions of the Russian staff. I t is certain, that when he started from Kiibal he had no idea that the city would be invested by a Persian army; in proof of which - I have letters from him soon after he reached ; the first alluding to no such expectation, and the second describing the Persian advances as sudden, and wholly unlooked-for by the authorities.

428 PERSIAN ARMY WARNED OFF.

K h r h ' s army, in the early epring, had threat- ened KAndahtir, and advanced to the Helmand, from which i t moved upon L h h and Jiwand, and then spread itself over Sisth; where the horses of the cavalry perished from disesee, and the fine& force which for some years had marched fiom Her$ became disabled. In this state, the sur- render of the frontier fortress of Ghorih, through treachery, reduced K 6 d n to the necemity of en- during a siege.

The results are well known. The Governor- general of India, to employ the o5cial term, w a d of the Persians, who, nevertheless, paid so little attention to the warning 08 that after they re- ceived it they made their last and most desperate assault on the place, when, being foiled, and sorely pressed by famine, and desertions from their camp, they retired in compliance, so they say, of his lord- ship's warning o$:

Colonel Stoddart, the British represel~tative in the Persian camp, and Lieutenant Pottinger, joined in their congratulations to the Governor-genera1, and ascribed to Providence the deliverance of the capital of KLmAn. God forbid that I should write profanely! but if Providence had aught to do in the matter, by all human calculation, it had intended that the Persians should have left their guns and equipage behind them, and perhaps that Mhhomed ShPh, Count Simonich, M. Goutte, and

RESULTS. 429

the re&, should have been picked up by the Turko- mans in their flight towards T6hrAn. So much good, or so much evil may have been prevented by MBbomed Shms compliance with the Governor- general's warning o$:

CHAPTER XVII~.

Captain Burnee's notion of hie mission.-Fallacy of opening the Indue.-Remcrrks on commercial missions.-My correspondence. -Letters from Captain Burnee.-His arrival in KPba1.-De- kct in instructions. -Captain Wade's jealousy. -Obstacles.- Advantages.-Statement of my views. - Favourable concur- rences.

IN the preceding chapter I have explained the origin of Captain Burnes's mission, and shown C a p tain Wade's notions of its object ; in the present I shall exhibit Captain Burnes's opinions, which may be best done by recourse to his letters.

" Hydrabad in Sinde, 2nd February, 1837. The growing demand for markets to the merchant throughout the world has stimulated the govern- ment, no less than the mercantile community, to make one grand attempt to open the Indus, and the countries in and beyond it, to commerce; and the government of India have reposed their confi- dence in me to try and work out this great end. The objects of my journey are, primarily, commercial ; and my political powera cease on leaving the Indus ; but we would ill discharge our duty to ourselves if we did not look to the right and left. But you

CAPTAIN BURNES'S MISSION. 43'1

will much oblige me by giving currency, as far as is in your power, to the hot, that the mrtin and great aim of government is to open the Indue, md to inform the chiefs in Afghhistkn, and the merchants of that country, of $he arrangements whioh have been entered into. I -&mot adduce a better proof of the sincerity of government in this great national undertaking than that after I had been directed to set out, Runjeet Sing threatened Sinde, and was alone prevented by British influence from attacking it. The government mid, justly, that if the balance of power on the Indus is destroyed our commercid hopee are ruined, and we have therefore concluded a treaty with the ameers, taking them under our protection, and fixing a British agent in Sinde ! W e have no wish to extend our. political relations be- yond the river, but a great one to enter into friendly commercial ones with all the chiefs between this and Persia. I might write to you very diffisely on this subject, but I think I have placed before yon, in a short compass, all that is interesting, and enough, I hope, to enabb you to form s j n d e e n t on the prospects of success, on the kind of reception we shall experience, and on other pointa ; of which your local knowledge a d long acquaintance quali- fy you, above all others, bo judge. If you will favour me with that judgment, I need not assure pou of the thanks which I shall owe you."

In the commencement of this bt ter Captain Burnes intimatad his wish to be informed of the

432 FALLACY OF OPENINQ THE INDUS.

" state of partiee in AfghhistAn," and, while I pro- m i d to write on that subject, I replied at once to the matter of the above extract.

The main, and great aim of government, is de- clared to be to open the Indus. Was the Indus ever closed, or farther closed than by its dangerous entrances and shallow depth of water? Another object waa to open the countries on and beyond the Indus to commerce. Were they also ever closed ? No such thing : they carried on an active, and in- creasing trade with India, and afforded markets for immense quantitiee of British manufactured goods. The governments of India and of England, as well as the public at large, were never amused and de- ceived by a greater firllacy than that of opening the Indus, aa regarded commercial objecte. The wsults of the policy concealed under this pretext have been the introduction of troops into the countries on and beyond the river, and of some half dozen steamers on the stream itself, employed for warlike objects, not for those of trade. There is, besides, great abeurdity in commercial treaties with the states of Central Asia, simply because there is no occasion for them. From ancient and prescribed usage, moderate and fixed duties are levied ; trade is pedectly free ; no goods are prohibited ; and the more extensive the commerce carried on the greater advantage to the state. Where, then, the benefit of commercial treaties ?

However, these were points on which it would

433 ' COMMERCIAL MISSIONS.

have been unnecessary for me to catechize Captain Burnes ; my duty led me to do my best to facilitate his objects, such as they were, and I answered him in the following manner.

" I have no idea that the amir, or any one here, fully appreciates the advantages of a strictly com- mercial treaty,+ll, no doubt, look forward to some political advantages, if no other than the security of their own dominiong from a connexion of any kind with the Indian government; and although your mission be avowedly a commercial one, it may easily be brought to be considered as the step to something that may be approved of even by them- selves, and to which, in the natural course of things, i t must lead.

"About two years since Lord Bentinck, in a letter to the amir, first suggested some kind of commercial arrangement ; his letter was not under- stood m it ought to have been, and the amps reply wm not so satisfactory, perhaps, as to induce his lordship to put forward a mission; but I may note, that with Lord Bentinck's letter Captain Wade addressed me, stating, that it was unnecessary to point out to me the advantages that would in con- sequence of such a treaty arise to the amir in the stability of his government, and so forth ; and Cap- tain Wade to the amjr, either directly or through the medium of AbdGl Ghiiis K h h , explained, that one of the benefits of such treaty would be, that every one should know his own boundaries. If

VOL. 111. 2 F

434 LETTERS FROM CAPTAIN BURNES.

these advantages, held out two yeare since, may be held out without exceeding your instructions at this period, in case such matters should be started, there would be nearly an end to discussion. These obser- vations, and those preceding, I make in allusion to the sole topic, upon which I apprehend you may not be prepared to reply in the manner that may be wished, but by no means intend them to be d ie couraging. Lord Auckland's letter on this point waa even satisfactory, for, alluding to the Sikh aggres- sions of which the am'u complained, he mentioned, that if the British government were a party be- tween, such aggressions should or would cease,--or something to that effect,-upon which the 'd observed, that was something to the point, and then added, idly, however, laughing and rubbing his hands, that he had been better pleased to be or- dered to attack the infidel Ranjit."

In the reply to the letter of which the above is an extract, Captain Burnes seems to have been set into a blaze by letters from Mr. M'Neil. He writes : " I t gave me veiy great pleasure to receive your letter of the 16th April from Jelaabiid, which reached me at Bhawulyore on the 10th of May. For your luminous view of the state of affiirs in Cabool, believe me, I feel deeply indebted. I would have replied to your communication instantly, being quite alive to the necessity of letting the amem, and all concerned, know of our approach, but a most important despatch, no less than the one containing

LETTERS PROM CAPTAIN BURNES. 436

all the views of the Governor-general on AfghAnistiin, was sent, by the mistake of Captain Wade's moon- shee, to Mr. Mackison, a d I resolved, at all hazards, to await it. I t reached me late last night, and I cannot now regret the delay, as in half an hour after I received an express from Persia containing mat- ters of the first importance. The despatch of the Governor-general I enclose, and also the confiden- tial express from Mr. M'Neil, well assured arr I am, in putting you in possession of these important do- cuments, I am but advancing the interests of go- vernment, end shall be able through you, even be- fore I get to Cabool to elicit information to guide my proceedings.

" To proceed, however, step by step in my inqui- ries and observations, it is first necessary to observe, that about ten days before I received your letter from Jeldlabiid, I had become cogniatbt, through Candahar, of the fact that Dost MIhomed KMn had opened a communication with Persia. I forth- with despatched the information to Lord Auckland, but I was not prepared for so rapid a confirmation of the circumstance as that which I received from you. You may imagine I lost no time in despatching ex- tracts of all parts of your letter relating to public a f i r s to the private secretary. I observe what you state, that the ameer's hopes from Persia have since he opened that communicsti~n greatly abated, but it was the circumstance of his opening the communi- cation at all that appeared to me important, and to

- 2 P 2

436 LE~TERS PROM CAPTAIN BURNES.

be a subject for our serious consideration. What then was my surprise to read the communications from the King of Persia to Dost Mihomed K h h , of which Mr. McNeil has with such dexterity pos- sessed himself.

" The enclosed despatch of the supreme govern- ment, written to Mr. McNeil on the 10th April, will show you that our policy in A f g h h i s h en- gages the anxious attention of government. What then, now must be the anxiety when such intrigues are brought to light? Before I heard of them I had addressed a letter. to government, of which I en- close you a copy. I t is not an official letter, but to the private secretary, and I do not forward to you the enclosure, which I hope soon to converse with you in person. From all these communi- cations you will be put in the possession of the views of government, of Mr. M'Neil, and myself, and your competent knowledge, and great load ex- perience will, I am sure, prove at this critical junc- ture of great service. I beg of you to favour me by writing your most unreserved sentiments. Nothing will gratify me more, and though I have published a book, and printed and written various views, no one will be more glad to alter those views than my- self. I have no system to uphold but one, which is an ardent wish to place our relations in the west on such a footing as will best serve the interests of India. As yet I have no authority beyond that of conducting a commercial mission ; but various hints

L ~ E R S FROM CAPTAIN BURNES. 437

and letters, together with the chain of events now in progress, have served to convince me that a stir- ring time of poZitical action has arrived, and I shall have to show what my government is made of, as well as myself. Waving, therefore, all what is, called ' political humbug,' I have placed all matters before you. The next point to be attended to is the state of politics at Candahar, a Russian letter to the chief, and presents from the Czar. Why, zounds ! this is carrying the fire to our door with a ven- geance.- Nothing can come out of that scheme ; but it also shows that we must be on the alert there."

On the 26th of June Captain Burnes had become more composed as he then wrote from DEra Ismael Kh&n : " After I laat wrote to you, and four or five days had elapsed, I received an express from Lord Auckland's secretary on the first news of the inten- tions of Dost Miihomed KhAn (to attack the These, as you may well imagine, gave cause for alarm, and I was instructed to delay my advance till I got instructions, which would follow in a day or two. These instrnctione have now reached me ; and though prudence dictates a cautious line of proc& dure, still I am left at liberty to advance if I choose ; and the government hope I may do good. I have, therefore, addressed Doet Miihomed Khb, and a copy of the letter I enclose for your information. The original I send ; aleo letters for the nawhb and Mirza Sami K h h , which you will very much oblige

438 LETTERS FROM CAPTAIN BURNES.

me by delivering, in the way which you may judge most suitable. You will see that I have been very explicit with the ameer ; and if he could but see his own interests he would make terms with the Seiks from Rid5 and leave us unfettered; in which I see to him much good. The British government con- template no employment of its power in Cabool, though it ardently wishes for peace on its frontier; and it is also most anxious that no further injury should be done to the A f g h h ; but this must de- pend on the Afghhs themselves. You will well imagine how anxiously I crhall look out for replies to these communications. I feel myself gifted with much more latitude since I last wrote to you, but I must see with my own eyes before acting, or recom- mending action, and it will never do to offend Run- jeet Sing, whose alliance we court, and must cherish."

Captain Burnea's next letter to me, on the 25th July, was alike moderate. The collision between the Sikhs and Afghbs had passed over; with refer- ence to which he wrote: " I t really seems to me that matters have subsided into a better form than was to be anticipated, though I quite agree in the ob- servation made by you, in one of your letters to C a p tain Wade, that a very free use of the name of the - British government seems to have been made."

'' I shall not hi1 to inform Captain Wade of the arrival of the elchee from Persia by the first packet. The designs from the west require to be sedulously watched, though I have received

LETl'ERS PROM CAPTAIN BURNES. 439

much support to my opinions from finding you so strong upon the improbability of Shia ascendency in Cabool. I always looked upon it as highly im- probable.''

On the 6th August Captain Burnes wrote from camp, near Attok :-" At Hasan Abdall, on the let, I had the satisfaction of receiving your communica- tion of the 16th, by my own cossids ; and if I have already felt myself obliged by your full exposition of the state of a E r s in Cabool, I must say that you have, if pos~ible, increased my obligation by this most valuable communication. You have laid be- fore me the mcks which endanger every movement; and so foul is the path that I much fear, with such a beaoon, I shall yet be involved in great embarrass- ments. I have only one sheetanchor left, which is, that they will be roused in Calcutta to make some decided exertion, at variance with our late sleepy policy; and if they act not thus, I even question the propriety of their having ever deputed me to Cabool. The ameer's letter which you enclosed is the coun- terpart of the original. I looked upon it as satis- factory, but there was still a tone and tenor in it which I do not like, and which your letter com- pletely gxplained. I do not think the British govern- ment is in a humour to be trifled with; and if the ameer hopes to play off the offers of B o k h b and Persia, to quicken us in our movements, he may fail. If, however, government attaches importance to the communications from Russia (and I shall won-

440 LElTERS PROM CAPTAIN BURNES.

der much if they do not do so) their proceedings may be very different, for I do not apprehend we should ever submit to a Russian intrigue near our own frontier without seeking to counteract it, and that had we not been already sent, some one of our nation must have followed, or they must have sent you yourself powers. !

"The audacity of Mihomed Hussein, whose letters you enclosed, astounds me; he is, however, a very Persian. I translated the epistles, and sent them on to the private secretary. They require no comment. This letter is by no means meant as an answer to your last communication. That I have studied, and reperused with great care, and it has instilled into my mind some doubts, which are alwap wholesome. It seems, however, certain, that we must form some connexion with Cabool, and it ie more the way in which that should be brought about that puzzles, than the kind of conn'exion - so conflicting and various are the interests.

" I t will interest you to know, that Captain Shiel, the secretary of legation at TGhrh, has accom- panied a Persian elchee to Khiva and B o k h h to put down slavery--accompafiied I say, because it has been so communicated to me, but I question the good which can arise from such a journey-we should look nearer home. My opinions on Persian politics are very fixed. Without Mr. Macneil there we should have been soon ousted-with him the evil day only is postponed, and our connexion with the country

LE~TERS FROM CAPTAIN BURNES. 441

will end in signal discomfiture and disgrace. Taking a general view of things at present, I should not be surprised if government followed one of two views, --one is, to invest me with full powers ; the other is, to direct me to stay in Cabool till I can communi- cate with them ;-the last, and most improbable of all, is, to suspend my movemeats."

From Peshiwer, on the 22d of August, Captain Burnes wrote : " It gives me great pleasure to acknowledge your letter of the 12th, which reached me yesterday afternoon. A t all events, your present letter sets my mind at ease regarding the feelings of Dost Miihomed K h h . The change of tone in the ameer is what I very much desired, and what I cer- tainly hoped for, but I had also quite made up my mind to let him know at once that the British go- vernment were not likely to permit any coquetting on his part. The honour of having any agent, however humble, deputed to confer with him is by no means a small one, and if nothing took place but mere conference, ayd he saw his position properly, he might so strengthen himself, that in a year or two' he would have no equal nerqr him. Such at least are my sentiments ; and with them you may ima- gine that we are not likely to be taken by storm. In fact, if Dost Mhhomed K h h continues to con- template attacks on the Seiks, and to increase his dujies on the merchant, we may very well ask the utility of holding any communications with him."

b6 The approach of the bursting bubble of MB-

442 V I ~ REOARDING PESHAWER.

homed Humin's mission is highly amusing. While seated on Hindoo Koosh, drinking tea and laughing at the said Mirza's fibs, which Ferdinand Mindez Pinto ne'er outdid, I little thought I warj holding converse with the future ambassador of the ruler of Cabool to the King of Kings ! Among other curio- sities to show you on the af&h of nations, I have a very nrorceuu in the shape of forged credentials from the ameer to Lord Auckland in behalf of Hajee Hussein K h h ! ! I possess the original, and a rarer bit of Hajee Babaism I have not seen."

Captain Burnes next wrote me from D&a, on the 4th of September, when, having oleared the Khaibar Pass, he had entered Dost Mhhomed KhWs dominions. He then said, "I have no means of doing juatice to your many and con- siderate letters. Lying before me are those of the 14th, 17th, 23rd, and 26th of August, and yours of the 27th haa just been put into my hands.

'"I'he view which you have taken of Pesh4wer being passed over to Stilt511 MBhomed KhAn, ie to me very satishtory. I am not without hope that we shall, in course of time, be able to work out this matter; but it would be presumption in the extreme to hope for it if oertain circumstances, which I shall unfold, did not lead me to have a well-grounded hope. I should like to have the amV s own views ; Sooltan Mkhomed KhWs I have, and, if I am not deceived, an inkling of those of

ALLUSION TO PERSIAN AFFAIRS. 443

Runjeet Singh. Had we not had to pull the h76al- sca's rein in Sinde, I should have said, that the ad- justment of i t amounted to a certainty; and I now believe that the drain which PeshCwer ie upon his finances, his wish to please us, and other things combined, will, in the end, tend to adjustment.

" The noa-arrival of the Persian elchee is amusing enough. I suppose he has had his coly, de grace, for the ameer cannot surely put any reliance after such an exposure of Mghomed Hoosein's fsbrications. W e have no late news here of affiirs to the west.

" Your letter to Captain Wade I perused, and sent on by the cossid Rom Ali Musjeed. I really do not comprehend Captain Wade's allusion to the state of affairs in Persia being favourable ; ' my accounts, as I interpret them, speak to the contrary. I am glad the panic, from the contente of his letter, has been removed, and I am a good deal amused at what he aaya about the ' Governor- General and I have both been inculcating peace, &c.' Had I known such i d a t e ' m I need not have written, aa I did, from Dera Ismael Khan ; but I hope soon to read a lesson in poprid p e r ~ o p a a ~

to Dost Maomed Khkn, and let him know what are and what are not the views of the Britiuh government, though it would indeed be gratify- ing to myself if I were better informed on them than I am. My last accounts from Calcutta are, in plain English, as follows: that Lord Auckland looks with great anxiety to hear from me in Cabool

444 AFFAIRS OF KANDAHAR.

after I have seen abut me; the meaning of which is clear enough, that they are to act after I have reported. This looks like toasting our toea a t Ca- boo1 for the winter."

From Chupreeal, on the 9th of September, C a p tain Rurnes wrote : " I am glad to say that an im- portant express has reached me since I last ad- dressed you, which will not make me afraid to

. meet Dost Mihomed K h h , for I have it now in my power to be of service to him, but I ehall not speculate at length on the subject now. I am very anxious to have the ameer's own views of his own affairs, for on them a good deal will de- pend. I need only tell you, in confidence, that

I the adjustment of Peshiiwer is nearer than ever, if not mismanaged, and you well know how easy- i t is to do that, even without Afghhs, and their proverbial stupidity.

" I do certainly consider Dmt Miihomed K h h has it in his power to become a great man, if he can resist the pressure from without (as the poli- ticians say at home) of his own family, and act for himself.

" I have had my attention most especially called to the affairs of Candahar ; and, more opportunely than I could have hoped for, I have just received a despatch from thence, old in date certainly, but full of particulars of the way the gird& went about their communications with Russia, which bear the stamp of truth, and confirm much of what Mr. hi6Neil writes. M y account of tllc el-

VISlT TO CAPTAIN BURNES. 445

chee's revels coincide with your own; and in pre- paring my despatch I shall note the coincidences between the information. I imagine the elchee will not come to Cabool; but what think you of the s i r d h having sent other letters, and another envoy to T6hrh and the Russian minister?"

From Tkzin Captain Burnes wrote, on the 16th of September: "The accounts from Candahar are really perplexing. The information you convey tallies well with what I have received ; only that the Candahar s i r d h have, I hear, of themselves, detained Kumber Ali, and got him to write to the sh&, as they have themselves done, that Ca- boo1 is of no use to his Majesty, and Candabar is the ground to work upon ! ! ! Tad m i w . In the same truth, Kohan Dil K h h writes me a more than friendly letter, and his brothem are equally amicable."

On the 18th of September Captain Burnes reached BhGt K h k , where I paid him a visit, and remained with him the following day. Our conversation was nearly exclusively on political matters ; and I must confess I augured very faintly of the success of his mission, either from his man- ner or from his opinion " that the Afghhs were to be treated as children," a remark that drew from me the reply, that he must not then expect them to behave as men. On the 20th of September I returned to the city, after breakfast, and Captain

Burnes being met on the road by Miihomed Akbsr KhAn, was escorted with all honour to the presence of Dost Mihomed K h b .

I have not judged it necessary to make any comments upon the various extracta I have sub- mitted from Captain Burnes's letters. If Captain Wade may be charged with doing too little, I think it may be conceited that Captain Burnes was inclined to do too much. What I conceived my duty had led me, as will have been seen, at the earliest period of my correspondence with C a p tain Burnes to presa upon him the necessity of having clear i ~ t r u c t b n s , and of being prepmd to meet the proposals likely to be made to him. I had reasons to suspect that the then govern- ment of India was a weak government, and I was aware that missions are put forth in a loose manner. I also foresaw the evils which delay would excite with impatient people, and I could but know that in less than four months no answer from Calcutta to any communicstion could be re- ceived. It was therefore clearly proper, 8s well as essential to success, that Captain Burnes should come as well prepared as possible. I was, more over, consoious of the jealousy of the political agent at Lfidfha, who had informed the autho- rities a t KAbal, through Abdiil GhiL K h b , that he would have been a fitter person than Captain Burnes for the mission, and would have done more for them than he could do, on account of his

SETTLEMENT OF AFGHAN AFFAIRS. 4-47

influence with Ranjit Singh. I also knew that Captain Wade could depend on the support of Mr. Secretary Macnaghten. On the other hand, Captain Burnes was agreeable to Lord Auckland, and had the privilege of constant communication with the private secretary, Mr. Calvin,--sufficient to protect him from evil influences, had he used it wisely.

In conformity to the request of Captain Burnes, I sent him a paper on the state of parties in K&bal. I afterwards did more, and entered into a detail of the conflicting interests in Afghhistka, and the mode in which, in my opinion, they were to be approached and reconciled. When at Bombay, in 1841, I wrote to Sir Alexander Burnes at Kiibal, hoping he would not object to send me copies of these two documents. I sailed for England before his reply, if he made any, could have reached me, and since no letter of his has been forwarded to me. Nothing would have given me greater sstiefaction than to have been enabled to publish these papers, for not only would they have shown my views and opinions, but I may fancy they would have established that the Afghb affairs were ca-

pable of settlement, and that the settlement was in our power at that time. My proposal was simply, that Peeh&wer,-the assumption of which by Ranjit Singh had brought on all our evils,- should be restored to SGltb Mihomed K h b ; in fact, that a mere act of justice should be done.

448 APPOINTMENT OF AGENTS.

By this the chiefs of Kkndahk would be at once reconciled, while Dost Mzihomed Khan would have no alternative but to acquiesce ; still, as to his exertions, in some measure, the restitution might be held due, I proposed that S G l h Miihomed K h h should pay annually a sum,. more or less, not exceeding a 16kh of rupees, from his revenuee, which I did not doubt he would gladly do, as the price of being relieved from Sikh control, and of the possession of the entire country. The Sfkhs, having built a capacious and strong fortress a t Peshgwer, I foresaw they might either propow to leave a garrison in it or wish to dismantle it. It appeared to me better that it should remain an Afghh bulwark; and as the expense in the construction was not considerable, and I was well aware that SGlt&n Maomed K h h had no funds, I submitted, that the government might advance the one or two l&hs which would be required, unless indeed the restored sirdk should pay it off by instalments. To see that these arrangements were c&ed into effect and duly observed, I pro- posed that a superior agent should reside at Kabal, and subordinate ones at Khdah% and Peshiiwer, as checks upon the conduct of the chiefs, and for the purposes of seeing what was going on, but without exercising any kind of interference in other matters.

I never once alluded to Persian and Russian intrigues ; I hold them now ridiculous ; I held them

SURRENDER OF PESHAWER. 449

so then ; but while removing effectuaUy the only causes which could make them of any import, T suggested (seeing, from the jealousy the Bariik Zai chiefs entertained of KhrAn, it would be im- prudent that the agent at Kiibal should have any- thing to do with him or his affairs,) that Heriit should be placed in correspondence with the envoy at TChrh, and that an officer to that state should be furnished from the mission there.

While perfectly aware that the occupation of Peshiiwer was unprofitable, and the constant source of alarm and inquietude to Ranjit Singb, and satis- fied that he would relinquish it, if solicited by the Indian government as a favour to do so, I had not hoped that he would voluntarily come forward, and express a desire to be eased of it. As he did, it was only by the mismanagement which Captain Burnes, in his letter from Chapribl, deprecated, that our relations with the Afghan states were not placed on as fair a footing as it was needful they should be ; for my experience had brought me to the decided opinion that any strict alliance with powers so constituted would prove only productive of mischief and embarrass- ment, while I still thougbt that British influence might be usefully exerted in preserving the in- tegrity of the several states, and putting their rulers on their good behaviour.

Another unexpected pieoe of good fortune hap- pened about this time, inasmuch as KiimrBn, in

VOL. 111. 2 G

460 BUCCESS OF THE MISSION.

his intercourse with Mr. M'Neil, consented to acknowledge the independence of the BArak Zai chiefs, in return for being secured against the at- tacks of Persia, so that nothing was wanting to the sucoess of Captain Burnes'a mission but his own ability to avail himself of so great and un- expectedly concurring advantages.

CHAPTER XIX.

Captain Burnes's conversations.-His humility.-Vieit of Mirza Sami Khan.--Resolutions of the amir and his advisers.-Their disclosure.-My dissent.-The natvab's opinion.-Nature of the question.--Captain Burnes's notice of proposals.-Recommenda- tions to Lord Aucklanb-Unnecesssry alarms of Persk-Cap- tain Burnes'a delusion as to the arnir. - Captain Burnee's neglect.-Dispute on prerogative.-Arrival of Vektevich.-His suspicious credentials.-Dismay of Captain Burnes.-His im- prudent admissions - Hbsskn Ali. - Opinions a t KAbal. - Replies of Government.-Despatch of Lieut. Leech to Kiindahlr. -Rejection of Dost MBhomed Khiin'e proposals. -Perplexing state of the mission. - Absence of nawAb. - we of Dost MBhomed Khh-Unpleasant stay in KAbal.-Letter from the Chairman of the Court of Directors-Interview with Mirza Sami K h h . - Hie remarks. - Intimation to quit Kabal. - D a r k conversations.-Determination to leave.-Proposals to eeize Captain Burnee-Assault on my house.-Good-will of the inhabitant&-Parting interview with Mirza S a d Khan.- Remarks on the mission. - The A@hldstiln correspondence- Delusive intelliinca and reports.-Object of Vektavich.-His reply to Do& Mghomed Khh.-His return to Khdahsr.- Ab6 -.-HGji Hbsa6n Ali K h h , the Persian ambaasador.

THE day after Captain Burnes's arrival he placed before me the official documents relating to his missioa. I observed, after reading the .instructions, so called, that they were really none at all. He replied, that Dr. Lord on joining him at Haidarab6d had made the same remark.

a a a

Captain Burnes repeatedly saw the amir ; and his conversations were not of the most prudent kind, at least as f thought, for I considered it very un- advisable to excite expectations not likely to be realized, and to instruct a man, disposed to be san- guine enough, how essential his alliance was to the British government. The amir and Mina S a d - K h h were satisfied to listen to Captain Burnes ; and did not explain their pretensions ; alleging, that after his long journey a few days repose was re- quired: their objects being to ascertain the temper and habits of the envoy, as well as to agree amongst themselves on the terms to be proposed to him.

The amir had every reason to exult in the humi- lity of his new guest, who never addressed him but with his hands closed, in the attitude of euppli- cation, or without prefacing his remarks with "Gharib nawAz," your humble petitioner, which acquired for him in Kdbal the sobriquet of Gharib Nawk. My friends used jocularly to tell me, I might as well leave; and the amir himself was well pleaaed to find Captain Burnes more compliant and obsequious than I had been. The NawBb Jabgr Khkn, however, took the liberty of remonstrating with the envoy, and pointed out to him, that an agent of the British government had no occasion to fear, and that he might possibly repent having assumed so submissive a tone.

Nothing oould be more certain than that British reputation was highly considered in Kdbal; and i t

VISIT OF MIRZA SAM1 KHAN. 463

was supposed that a British mission would be con- ducted with a certain degree of decorum. It ex- cited universal surprise to witness the contrary, and that the revels of Kamber Ali at KBndahk were surpassed by the amir's new guests at Kibal. The a&, while receiving continual reports of what waa going on, forbad any notice to be taken, rejoic- ing perhaps that the envoy's intrigues were of any other than a political nature, and well mtisfied that the mission should disappoint public expectation.

Mirza Sami Khdn observing how matters stood, honoured me with aavisit at my house, the first he had ever made me; and after a few long-winded obser- vations, proposed that I should imitate the example of my illustrious superiors, and fill my house with blackeyed damsels. I observed, that my house was hardly large enougb, and he said that I should have Shkhzada Ashraf'e house, near the amir's palace. I then asked, where the damsels were to come from; and 'he replied, I might select any I pleased, and he would take care I should have them. I told him, hie charity exceeded all praise, but I thought it better to go on quietly in my old way,--and he dropped the eubject. I related to the nawBb and others what had passed, and we had a good laugh a t the mirza's expense, though all agreed it was well that one of us should refrain from committing himself, as strange thinga were likely. to happen. The subject of the intercourse with Captain Burnea naturalIy occi~pied the atten-

464 REGOLOTIONS OF THE AMIR.

tion of the amk and his &ends ; and M'ha &mi K h h and Mum I m h Verdi were selected to conduct it. The next step waa to consider the terms for proposal to the British government ; and these being resolved on, I waa favoured by a .visit from the two mirzas. They reminded me of the solicitude I had shown that the reception of the mission should be honourable and becoming, and appealing to me that they had done all that was required, entreated, in return, that I would support their interests. I had only to reply that, by repre- sentation to Captain Burnes, and I could do no more, I would support them, if I could with a clear conscience do so ; and I prayed them, for the sake of impossible or unlikely advantages, not to neglect what was in their power to gain. They then re- vealed the proposal they had agreed upon, which was, that Peshiwer was to be made over to the amir, as the sine qfui non of any understanding wit.h the British government. I at once told them, that Captain Burnes might do as he pleased, but that I should dissuade him from listening to any suuh terms. Mirza Sami K h b was now anxious to show me that his proposition originated with M h I m h Verdi, and not with himself, and made the latter say so, who maintained that such an arrange- ment was only due as a cousequence of the victory at Jamrbd. I set my face entirely against the proposal, and regretted that they should have deter- mined upon it; and they left me, Mirza Sami KhBn

NATURE OF THE QUESTION. 465

always exculpating himself from the charge of having originated it.

The Nawlib Jab& K h h strongly pressed upon Captain Burnes the necessity of firmly rejecting the proposal about to be made to him, on which so much depended. I did the same, in the most ,

forcible manner I could ; and showed him how M i a Sami KhAn, anticipating his rejection, was ready to excuse himself as being the author of it, and to cast its blame upon &a Imkm Verdi ; or, id fact, that the proposal was not expected to be received. I submitted to Captain Burnes that his course was a very clear one. The pleaeure of Ran,$ Singh to give up Peshiiwer afforded $he opportunity of settling the AfghAn question in a manner which could not have been looked for. It might be made to benefit the brothers at K h - dahh and Peshiwer equally with Dost Miihomed K h h , and the British government would, at all events, have done its duty to them, and have ful-

' filled its wish to benefit the AfghQn nation. Cap- tain Burnes urged that Doet Miihomed Khlin's pleasure might not be consulted, were Peshiiwer made over .to S G l h Miihomed K h h . I replied, that I believed it would whatever he might my to t h ~ contrary, but if not, let the arrangement be made without him ; he would soan crave to be ad- mitted a party to it, as he would not vepture to avow interests in opposition to those of all his countrymen, and could not afford to stand in the

456 NOTICE OF PROPOSALS.

light of a proscribed person. Captain Burnes did not intimate what course he would pursue ; but in due time the interview with him and the mirzirs took place. After it was over I received a note from him, which will a t all events prove he WQS not taken by surprise.

" I have had Mina Samee and Imam Verdee with me since breakfast, and they have just made known to me what you wrote, and I shall tell you my answer when we meet you in the evening."

Before the eveiling came I had learned, from rumour, what the answer had been, and a more unfortunate one could not have been made. I t had spread over the city, and become the talk of the baz5.r ; and an expression of the envoy's, that Rmjit Singh would be so delighted when he heard the amir's proposal that he would fire a shelyek, or salvo of artillery, was repeated by every one in ridicule.

When I saw Captain Burnes he explained, that the 'm'mas had proposed, in return for the cession of Peshbwer to the amir, that one of the latter's sons should reside a t Lahore with the rn&i%ijii as a hostage for his father's good behaviour. He said, that he was so atonished that he made the mirzas thrice repeat what they had said, to be sure there was no mistake; and that, satisfied there was none, he had told them all would be settled as they wished. I could only express my fears that the urorst results would follow.

RECOMMENDATIONS. 457

By this stroke the chiefs of KAndahiir, who had suffered Kamber Ali to depart, began, in self-de- fence, to renew their correspondence with Persia. The Nawlib Jabzir KhAn, and principals of the SGni party at Klbal, ceased ,to interest themselves in the success of the mission, and either seldem visited the darbik, or, when there never tallied on business. No person of any respectability or character ever called on Captain Burnes, and the mission was left to follow up its irregular m e r , and to sink into contempt.

Captain Burnes, as soon as he reached Kilbal, had intimated to Lord Auckland the advisability of mak- ing the offer to Dost Mdhomed K h h of guarantee. ing to him the possession of Peshdwer on the death of Rsnjit Singh ; he had now to forward his new proposals. In less than three months, under any circumstances, replies could not be expected. Dost Mihomed K h h , for the moment supposing that Captain Burnes would not approve the proposal unless certain it would be acted upon, was satisfied ; but the restlessness of the KBndah% sirdiirs a little disturbed the leisure which Captain Burnes had gained. The correspondence with them led to an offer by him to supply them with three l&hs of rupees to repel any attack from Persia. I remon- strated as much as I could against this offer, and Captain Burnes finally apprised me he had made it, observing, " Masson, I have gone the whole hog."

458 UNNECESSARY ALARMS OF PERSIA.

I t may be right to notice that, in the absence of special inetructions for his guidance, Captain Burnee considered it was the intention of government that he should do what seemed to him be& when, if he chanced to do what was thought proper, he would receive unbounded applause ; if the oontrary, he would be wigged. Agreeably to his purpose of mag- nifying the danger to be apprehended from Pereia, and of attaching importance to transactions at K b - dah6r, he contemplated the deapatch of Lieutenant Leech, one of his assistants, to that place. I opposed the measure, thinking that, unlesa matters were settled at KAbal, it would only increase embarma+ ment. I moreover felt certain it must be totally at variance with Dost Miihomed K h u s wishes, an immaterial point, if any benefit were to accrue from it ; still, what might be attended to, when, as I clearly saw, evil was likely to arise from it. Cap tain Burnes most positively affirmed that the am'u was consenting, or tbat Mirut Sami KhAn so as- sured him, which made me suspect that the am'u and his mirza might be pleased to witness the farther complication such a visit would occasion. There was some delay, however, in the departure of Lieutenant Leech.

I had from the beginning cautioned Captain Burnes not to be deceived by Dost Miihomed K h b . He argued, " Oh, Masson, he is so shrewd-be talks so sensibly." I admitted that he could do all that ; still he ww to be taken care off. I had no better

DELUSION AS TO THE AMIR. 469

success than had the nawAb, who alike endeavoured to persuade him that Dost Mihomed Khin was anything but an angel. From my knowledge of the a&, I could smile at receiving such notes as this : " I never had so kind a reception-he is every- thing to us !"-" All went nobly on last night; he was quite pleased," &c. A very little time, how- ever, sufficed to permit the growth of doubts in the amir's mind, whether the confidence of Captain B u r n s as regarded Peshiiwer would be shared in by his superiors at Calcutta, and he began to pay him much less attention and respect, and Mfrza *

Sami K h h ceased to call upon him so frequently and so regularly as before. Indeed the conduct of the mission was often discussed in the darbb, and many expressed their opinions that the amir had deceived himself. Still, the infatuation of the envoy seemed as strong as ever; and he was apparently secure in the conviction that government would not fail to adopt his recommendations. On one occa-

sion, Dost Mdhorned K h h being told he did wrong to expect Peshdwer from Captain Burnes, M'm Sami, present, said, he would step over to him and ask. He represented to Captain Burnes that cer- tain monzifikh, disaffected persons, had said, the amir reposed foolishly on his promises. The envoy replied : " Only wait till Lord Auckland's letter ar- rives, and, by the grace of God, the faces of the monzifikiin shall be blackened." With this answer the mirza returned in great glee to the darbzir.

460 CAPTAIN BUBNES'S - NEGLECT.

Conscious that Dost Mihomed Khb ' s propo- sition would not be supported by the government, and equally aware that its rejection would give rise to violent anger and diaappointment, I much strove to induce Captain Burnes to urge upon government the advantage of ascertaining exactly Ranjit Singh's wishes tas to Pe~hiiwer, that we might be prepared to meet the storm we had to encounter a t Kiibal by counter-propositions. Not suspecting that go- vernment would object to Ilia recommendation, Cap- tain Burnes did not think this necessary, and neg- lected it for a long time, and until too late. He was in correepondence with Captain Wade, but i t was of a kind rather to delay than to promote business. In a note to me Captain Burnes writes : " Here are all-You'll see Wade has got it again from govern- ment for ' commenting' on my letters. I am as- tounded a t his not having told Ranjit Singli a word of what h a passed here. No wonder he is sur- prised."

That the m&h%iij& was surprised is beyond doubt, for with his news-writers at Khbal he could not but be aware of Captain Burnes's i n t e r c o m with the amir, and of what had passed between them, for that was known to every pumpkin-seller in the brtziir. He in consequence addressed a letter to the envoy, warning him that the Afghhs were interested and bad people, and that Dost MQhomed K h k was a very wicked man, and a liar, but that SGltan MB- homed K h h was in the sirk6r's service, and had

DISPUTE ON PREROOATIVE. 461

been useful to him. 1 thought the purport of this letter was very plain, but Captain Bumea showed it to the amir on the idea that i t was intended to be shown to him, and informed the miihkiiji he had done so. I ventured to predict Rtlnjit Singh would not again address him, nor did he.

Captain Bumes, in place of urging upon Captain Wade the necessity of ascertaining the m6hbLji's wishes, entered into a discussion about " preroga- tive,"--a note I have will explain its origin. " Read you ever such insolence. The man talks of pre- mgative !" Captain wade had declared, that to comment on Captain Burnes's despatches was his prerogative. Captain Burnes retorted, that prero- gative was only enjoyed by kings; and Captain Wade answered, that he was mistaken, and sent him the meaning of the word from Johnson's Dictionary ! Two months were wasted in this very profitable discussion.

On the 19th of December Lieutenant Vektavich reached KBbal, and rather suddenly, for we had scarcely heard of his arrival at KAndahk when he made his appearance. The sirdim of that place were willing to have detained him, but he threw his papers on the ground, and menaced them with the Emperor of Russia's vengeance should they do so; when, finding they had a very different kind of a person than Kamber Ali to den1 with, they permitted him to proceed. His arrival at Killa KLzi was announced to the arnir, and some one

462 SUSPICIOUS CREDENTIALS OF VEKTAVICH.

was sent to inquire. his rank, that his reception might be regulated. He replied, that he was no elchi, but a messenger, or h e r of letten. Count Nesselrode has since made him a commercial en- voy ; if so, it was entirely unknown to himself, or denied by him. Mirza Sami K h h inquired of the amir, where he should be lodged, and receiving a very careless reply, again submitted that i t was proper he should be informed. The amir said,

' " lodge him with Miihomed HG&n at the nawilb's, and there will be two lGtias, or buffoons, together." The mima had difficulty to get a better reply, but it was finally settled that the m h himself should look after him, as, under his eye he could hold no improper communications.

The sirdsrs of Kbdahgr had written to the amir that they did not know what to make of the Cossack, or of the letter he had with him, which wanted signature and seal. MGlla Rashid did the same, but also sent a show-letter, published in page 7 of the Correspondence relating to Afghbis tb , which, for want of something better, has found a place there, although it explains, in the pwtacript, its object to "rouse the mind of Alexander Burnes."

The letter, dated 23rd December, 1837, from Captain Burnes to Lord Auckland, recording the former's views and recommendations, and of which extracts are given in page 9 and 10 of the Corre- spondence, is too curious a document for me to

DISMAY OF CAPTAIN BURNES. 463

-paas over in silence, particularly as I must state, once for all, that Captain Burnes never showed me any of his despatches to government at the time they were sent, the reason I knew to be that I should have protested against them. On the other hand, all despatches from the government., and even private letters from India and England, were sent to me as soon as received. This ex- planation is necessary with respect to this letter, No. 6. The reports of Vektavich's conversations with the amir am absolutely false. Captain Burnes gives them on the authority of two sources, both of whom were instructed by Miza Sami ' K h h to delude him, the object being, like that of MGlla Rawhid, to " rouse the mind of Alexander Burnea."

The arrival of Vektavich completely overpowered the British envoy, and he abandoned himself to despair. He bound his head with wet towels and handkerchief&, and took to the smelling-bottle. I t was humiliating to witness such an exhibition, and the ridicule to which it gave rise. The amh called on the disconcerted envoy, and Mirza Sami KhAn brought over the letter said to be from the emperor, for both of them had suspicions, in common with the KAndahk sirdih, that it might not be genuine, and so they told Captain Burnes, who, however, at once assured them it waa genuine, and that there could be no doubt of it. After this imprudent admis- sion, the amir was at liberty to play off the Russian and the Imperial letter. The latter, however, was

464 IMPRUDENT ADMISSIONS.

left with Captain b m e s to be copied. I unhe- eitatingly expressed my opinion that the letter was a fabrication, as far as the emperor was concerned, but that i t was very probably #got up in the Persian camp before Heriit, because without some such document Vektavich would not have dared to show himself in Afghbnist An. Captain Burnea pointed out to me the large exterior seal on the envelope, on which were the Russian arms. I sent for a loaf of Russian sugar from the bkar , a t the bottom of which we found precisely the same kind of seal. Captain Burnes shrugged his shoulders, elevated his eyebrows, and rolled his tongue round his cheek, but he had done the evil in not ttllowing the amir and Mirza Sami Khan the benefit of their own doubts. Count Nesselrode, in acknowledging the mission of Vektavich, may be supposed to have adopted this letter, although he does not expressly do so; I still, however, believe it to have been' a fabrication, while admitting the Russian minister's dexterity in relinquishing projects he never enter- tained. It may be further remarked of this docu- ment, that i t wss not written by the count a t the emperor's command, but purported to be from the emperor himself, another proof, in my estimation, that. it was not genuine,-however, on that very account well calculated to deceive Dost Miihomed Khan. The arrival of Vektavich with his letter astoni~hed the amir, particularly as he was uncona scious of having written a letter to Russia, and for

RECEPTION OF VEKTAVICH. 465

the moment did not remember HGss6n Ali, and he required to be told that he waa the son of Bhji MGr- w ~ . He then observed I gave him no letters, and A-lfrza Sami K h h explained that he had written one, and claimed to himself much credit for having procured the amh the honour of a reply from the emperor. Whether the amir believed his mina or not, I cannot tell.

I t was known that HGss6n Ali had accompanied Vektavich from B o k h h to Orenburg. His non- appearance with the Cossack offcer was considered in KBbal badly accounted for by the pretence stated of his being sick at Moscow, and the general opi- nion was, that Vektavich had murdered him--and this I state not wishing to belie Vektavich, but to show the little respect in which he and his mission were held by all, alaa ! but the British envoy-Vek- tavich indeed had a musket with him which was known to have belonged to HGgs6n Ali.

The reception of Vektavich was not such as he had reason to boast of, and in the house of M'ma Sami K h h he resided, in fact, under sur- veillance.

Replies to Captain Burnes' letters, and to his pro- posals to the government had begun to arrive. The government was then in possession of sobriety of judg- ment and honourable feeling, from which it since so strangely wandered. To the proposal that a promise should be made to the amir, of Peshiiwer on the death of Ranjit Singh, the reply was dignified and

VOL. HI. 2 H

466 MISSION OF LIEUTENANT LEECH.

proper, deprecating. the delicacy of speculating on the death of an individual. To the proposal to elevate Dost Miihomed K h h to great dignity and power, the reply was, wisely, that it was not the policy of the government to establish a great Mk homedan kingdom in that quarter.

Immediately after the arrival of Vektavich, Lieu- tenant Leech was sent to Khdahiir; he was fur- nished with no instructions, for none could be given to him; his presence was to create what is so vaguely termed a moral influence. I entirely dis- approved his mission, but Captain Burnes persisted it was with the pleasure of the amir, which I, never- theless, could not believe. There can be no doubt that Lieutenant' Leech signalized himself at K b - dahb. With his method of establishing a moral influence I have nothing to do, but a note to me

. from Captain Burnes may throw a little light on his political proceedings. " Here is a letter from Leech. He has done I think quite right to advise Meher Dil to come here and to raise Ghazees-and-I am glad to see he knows our footing with Persia so well." In the evening when I saw Captain Burnes I told him that I thought Leech had done quite wrong, and suspecting it might be so, in his de- spatches to government he suppressed all that had been written about the Ghazees, or so he inform- ed me.

At length a reply waa received from govern- ment to the despatch of Captain Burnes reporting

GOVERNMENT DESPATCH. 467

the offer of a sum of money, -three l4khs of rupees -to K h d a h h for the purpose of repelling Persia. The Governor-general in the strongest terms ex- preesed his regret and disappointment, and directed Captain Burnes to rescind his offer which, as very correctly stated, involved the grave questions of peace and war. The despatch was a very long one, and a letter from the private secretary a p prised Captain Burnes that it was specially dictated by the Governor-general. Hie lordship here omit- ted to do what was farther necessary - to re- cal the envoy whose acts had the tendency to commit and embarrass the government. The folly of sending such a man as Captain Burnes without the fullest and clearest instructions, was now shown, and to do him justice, he observed that had a simi- lar exposition of the government views been fur- nished to him in the first instance, he would never have committed himself. Recovering a little from the alarm it occssioned him, he still affected to be- lieve his own judgment of affairs the right one, al- -

though it now became his painful task to undo all he had done, and to destroy all the expectations he had so unhappily raised in the bosom of the amir. He made a curious remark on this occasion to me, that it wae strange that Lord Auckland, the Nawiib J a b k K h h and myself, held the same opinions on Afghan afiirs, never I suspect conceiting that we might be right and he wrong.

The proposal to give Peshiiwer to the amh, Ran- 2 ~ 4

468 ANXIETY OF CAPTAIN BUBNES.

jit Singh receiving in return one of his sons, had never been made to the rn&6&j& Captain Wade denouncing it, and I am miry to say, justly, as " in- sidious,"-the government thought so too. Captain Wade, however, had not ascertained the miihhjii's intentiom as regarded Peshiwer, and when directed by the government to learn them, was obliged to report that the dj6 had returned to Lahore, and his influence was set aside. The rniih&&jCs wishes were, therefore, never known, and we had no means of softening the disappointment of the amh, which any arrangement about .the disputed territory might have enabled us to do.

Captain Burnes, as soon as he perceived a crisis had come on, asked where that old fool the nawiib was. H e was at Tatang, where Captain Burnes a month before had sent him. The nawiib had a long time before sent his family there, but waited in K b bal until his lordship's replies should arrive. Cap- tain Burnes was sometimes told that he kept the nawBb from his ladies, which he took ill, and in- sisted that the nawilb should go down to them. I saw the old gentleman before leaving, and he laugh- ingly said that Sekander had turned him out of K& bal. H e asked me what I thought of affairs, and I put the question to him. H e said they were ganda or rotten. I observed, I fear so, and bantered him on getting so nicely out of the way. H e promised that whenever the despatches from government reached, he would, on being informed, be in KBbal

CAPTAIN BURNES AND THE AMIR. 469

the day after. Captain Burnea now sent an express for the nawkb, who immediately returned to the city, after which he communicated to the amir, the contents of the letters he bad received, a t the same time delivering a letter to the am'lr's addiess from the Governor-general.

The conduct of Captain Bnrnes in this state of things was, in my opinion, neither the col~ect nor the judicious one. That he had approved the pro- posals of the amir there can be no doubt; instead, therefore, of acknowledging his own error in having done so, he adopted the strange course of calling the amir to task for having made them. A very pretty interview necessarily passed, which a note from him to me written immediately after, will, perhaps, show. " I t is impossible to write all, and for me to come to you or you to me before dinner might show our funk. I gave it fearfully and left him in a furious rage, but not a word was forgotten of which I prepared for him. He gave the old story - no benefit - no one cares for a falling nation - I offered my wares for sale, and you would not buy."

I may observe that Captain Burnes had not been a month in Kkbd before Dost Mfiomed KhAn be- gan to look upon him with very slight respect, and the remarks he made could scarcely be concealed from Captain Burnes. The latter alike grew to think less amiably of the amir, and used frequently to appeal to me aa a witness that his opinions had

470 INDECISION OF THE AMIR

changed. God knows both the nawiib and m y d f had abundantly cautioned him to be on his guard from the very first. His present violent behaviour had consequently something very annoying to the a&, who in truth hardly deserved such rude treat- ment in this instance, which the nawAb slao lament ed, while wishing Captain Burnes had commenced his negotiations in a firmer tone.

From this period Captain Burnes' reaideme in K&bal had become more disagreeable than before; and I do not doubt but he would have retired, had not Doctor Lord and Lieutenant Wood been some time previously sent to KGndh, and the latter of- ficer had gone thence to Badakshh. I t is c&+n

he ought to have left KBbal, for his presence was only productive of increased mischief and diagraoe, -although he justified his stay to government by the common-place plea of moral effect. Dost Mb- homed K h h was very uneasy, and even at times so undecided, that he once signified he wss willing to accede to whatever the government wished, - an- other time Mirza Sami K h h proposed that the throat of Vektavich should be cut, and again pro- mised to renounce connexion and intercourse with the west if assured of protection against Persia. I would not vouch that these offers were sincerely made, but they were made. Captain Bmes would listen to nothing, - one of his notes to me may ex- plain why. " This brings the ameer to ask in what way he has nd met the wishes of government. I

THE CHAIRMAN'S LElTER 471

might have asked in return in what way lras he? but I am sick of the matter, and'visited him for three hours and never touched on businees. W h y should I LVektavich is here, and has no intention of moving, - the good ameer declines all prelimi- naries for peace with Ranjit Singh, and writes to Candahh, and also tells me that he has no hope from our government,-but enough."

Captain Burners did not cease to press on the attention of government the danger from Persia and Russia ; and his desire for action was admirably seconded by letters he received from England. I have a note in which is written, " I eend you a letter to read from the chairman of the directore, who in truth wiohes to wdk on. I wish they would be moved who are nearer." This letter from the chairman was certainly a singular one, for it an- nounced no less than a determination to take the Panjkb, Captain Burnes being promised the con- duct of the expedition. Sir John Hobhouee, in his speech to the House of Conlmons on the 23rd June, 1842, states that a despatch to Lord Auckland " at the end of October, 1838, instructed his lordship in council to pursue aery nearly the same course, which it afterwards appeared he had adopted with- out knowing our opinions." It appears, therefore, his lordship did not pursue pite the course recom- mended by Sir John Hobhouse and the Secret Committee, and it is not impossible the slight error was made of marching to Kkbal instead of to La-

472 INTERVIEW WITH THE MI=. * I

hore, -at least, such may be inferred from thie letter of the chairman, who was one of the Secret

i Committee. This letter was sent by Captain Burnes 1

to Lord Anckland through the private secretary, Mr. Colvin, and came back with the expression of his lordship's approval.

My intercourse with the Am& and M'uza S a d K h b had ceased altogether, the latter, seeing'the bad turn affairs had taken, now wished to see me. Captain Burnes recommended me to call on him. I was with him nearly the whole day. He com- menced by setting forth that his relative, M h a Jiifar Khh, had purchased land, had built castles, bad planted orchards and vineyards, and wished to keep them,-and left me to apply the meaning of what he said. I observed that I thought I under- stood it, that every one desired to keep his own, which I believed was so exactly what our government wished, that I was surprised there should have been any misunderstanding on the matter. The mima agreed that I was right. He then, with reference to the negotiations with Captain Burnes, urged that I must have known better, and I pointed out that he was well aware of my opinions from the first. I had dissuaded him from making obnoxious pro- posals, and Captain Burnee from listening to them. More was out of my power. He asked how could Captain Burnes, unauthorised, sanction the proposal, and how could so great a government as that of India depute a '' hillah mirdem," frivolous man, as

THE MIRW'S OPINIONS. 473

he had proved to be ? I replied that the govern- ment had sent him, believing him to be the person who would be most acceptable to them, and I prayed Mirza Sami not to allow any presumed defect in Captain Bnrnes' manner to make him lose sight of that officer's good intentions, for, however he had erred, and I regretted he had done so, it was still in the wish to serve them that he had incurred the displeaeure of government. He next alluded to the despatch of Lieutenant Leech to Khdahiir, and mid the am& was much pleased with me for having remonstrated against it. I urged that Captain Burnes constantly assured me that the amir was delighted at his going. The mhza said on the contrary, but that they assented, lest Captain Burn- should take it ill. I then remarked that here'was the cause of all our evil,-you say what you do not mean ; but, unluckily, Captain Burnes has not had sufficient experience of you to know it, and he takes yon at your word, but again you are to blan~e and not he. But what a gh6l to send ! remarked the miha. He then mentioned the despatch of Dr. Lord and Lieutenant Wood to KGndGz, and said they did not go to cure Miihomed Moriid Beg's brother's eye, but to visit Badakshh ; and further, that Badrodh had received a letter from Mima Badia telling him that Dr. Lord, instead of curing the diseased eye, had put the sound one out. Lien- tenant Vektavich and his letter were discussed, the document being displayed before us. I persisted

474 STATEMENTS AND ARQUMENTS.

that I had little faith in it, explaining for what reasons, and most certainly the mirza was as little credulous as I was. H e inquired whether the Rus- sians would do such a thing as to send a fabricated letter. I at once exonerated the Emperor, but thought i t very likely Goutte and such people would. Thie led me to explain to him that any hope of benefiting by a collision between England and Russia was ridiculous ; for not only did friendly relations exist between the two states, but should differences arise they would be adjusted in Europe, not in KLbal. W e talked a long time about He& and Persia, and I endeavoured to convince him that it was nonsensical to have any apprehension from Mhomed Shtih, for he could never dream of coming into AfghAnisth unless positively invited, which, again, were any of the chiefs there to do, the mass of the people would reject both them and him. If by any infatuation, contrary to all probability, he

-should advance, it would only be to be IGted, or plundered. The question of Peshiiwer was then broached, and he said that if it were given to SGI- d n Maomed K h h , it would be right to recom- pense the amh for having maintained him and his adherents in exile. I did not tell him that I had recommended a sum annually to be given to the am5 on this very mount , but contented myself by observing the amh had a claim on that head to con- sideration.-He then mid that many of S u l t h M& homed Khh's old servaiits now in the amirh service

INUTILITY OF INTEBCOUBSE. 475

would leave it ; 1 remarked that i t would be better they should, the amir's finances would be eased, and at KBbal they would only do harm by their intrigues. I spoke in the most unreserved mauner of the danger of their position, and repeated to him what I had be- fore told him on more than one occaeion, that the present state of affairs in Khbal could not endure, and that the government, embammed as it waa, muet fall to pieces unless supported by the aid and oountenance the British government in deputing Captain Barnes had tendmd. Mirza Sami K h h did not deny the truth of this, but he asked, " To what are we to agree?" No question could be more perplexing. My reply was, " By heavens ! I know no more than you, but I am certain you will not be required to agree to anything hurtful," and then added, " W e must agree to everything without knowing what, and then we shall find out." Be- fore we separated, i t was arranged that M h Sami Khan, who had discontinued his visits to Captain Burnes, should clril on him the next day, and I waa to attend. The next day I heard nothing more, but on the following I was sent for. M'ma Sami K h b was disgusted at Captain Burnes' declamation, and I must confess I was no less so. It was clear enough it was no longer wished to settle matters.

Both the a& and Mirza Sami K h h had inti- mated to Captain Burnes that business was over, but that he might, if he chose, remain a month or ao at KAbal, which was understood, by every one but

476 INDELICATE EXPOSURES.

himself, as a wish he should leave, but it was not convenient to do so until Dr. Lord and Lieutenant Wood returned.

This delay brought about many unpleasant cir- cumstances and discussions. Some of the peopIe, who had kept aloof since the arrival of the mission, one evening ventured to ask the amir what he was doing with Sekander. He replied that he did not know. He had told him to go, but he stayed; he was ignorant for what object. They suggested he should send for me. He said he would, and if satisfied with what I said, he would throw himself on the government. Two messages were brought to me that the amir was in the humour to have a conversation with me,' and informing Captain Burnes, I remained at home, suppoeing I might be sent for. It did not happen so; when the darbh was over, interested persons contrived to draw his attention to other things, and i t was forgotten. I could have seen him at any time, but refrained from troubling him, for I well knew, however I might be able to bring him to think reasonably, Captain Burnes would spoil what would be done.

Some indelicate exposures, affecting some of the suite of Captain Burnes, probably accelerated his departure, for suddenly he determinkd to move without waiting for the arrival of Dr. Lord and Lieutenant Wood, who were on the road to join him. I never knew the exact reason for the pre-

ATTACK ON MY HOUSE. 477

cipitancy, and thought, as he had waited so long, he might have remained another two or three days for his companions.

The contempt into which the mission had fallen, indeed, prompted certain persons to propose to the amir the wizure and spoil of the envoy, and while proffering to commit the deed they had repeated the fiitiha in his presence. The amh did not sanc- tion the memure, although he did not rebuke the proposers. A very general report spread over the country, that Captain Burnes was to be made a victim, but I understood the intention, never perhaps entertained by the amir, was abandoned; indeed, at that time, i t would have been perilous in the extreme to have attempted such a thing, and there were plenty of us in Kkbal to have made it recoil on those who imagined it.

I had, during my residence at Kilbal, been fa- voured with many attacks on my house, the last I experienced about this time. I was sitting alone in my room with the door open, and had just time to close it against a party coming up the stairs. In their flight they fell one over the other, and then over some water-jars at the bottom of the stair- case. After leaving Kfibal, I became informed of two of the men employed on this occasion, although such knowledge did not enlighten me as to their employers.

When i t was known in .K&bal that we were about to leave, there was a wish on the part of

478 ABRUPT DEPARTURE.

many of the inhabitants to present me with an addrem, which I declined ; i t ' was s n g e it might serve me with the government, hut I p m tested against any favour from the government to be gained by such an instrument.

I was wholly unprepared for m abrupt a depar- ture as we made; three of my servants were in the Kohisth, and unable to have my effects packed, I was compelled to distribute more than half of them to my neighbours. On the 26th of April Captain Burnes preceded me to BhGt Khkk, and I followed him. On the morning of the 27th, M'ma Sami K h h who had come to the camp, aeked Captain Burnes if i t were pomible to renew negotiations. He was told i t was not. He then came and embraced me, and seemed quite surprised to learn I was going, saying he had hoped I would remain, that there waa no occasion for me to leave, that no one was angry with me, that I had lived many years with them in credit, and that nothing could happen to lemen me in estimation, and so .

forth. I had only to say I was sorry to leave in such a manner, but, aa they thought proper to reject Burnea, I had no option. We then mounted our horses, Captain Burnea saying to me, " Your leaving them, Maseon, is ' the unkindest cut of all.' "

Thus closed a mission, one of the most extraor- dinary ever sent forth by a government, whether as to the singular manner in which it was con- ducted, or as to the results. There was nndoubt-

PRINTED CORRESPONDENCE. 479

edly p t blame on all sides. The governmeilt had furnished no instructions, apparently confiding in the discretion of a man who had none. Captain Burnes I always thought waa very wrong in not having insisted upon being provided with them ; his vanity and presumption led him, perhaps, to despise them, or even to rejoice that they had been omitted-his best excuse for the series of blunders he committed. Dost M6homed K h h and his friends were, I think, most to be pitied. They had, indeed, shown the cloven foot, but it waa the general opinion in KBbal, and was mine, that had they been properly treated, they would have done as much as could have been hoped from them.

Of this mission a very inadequate idea would be formed from the printed correspondence-in truth, scarcely any at all. I t is deplorable to read the worthless evidence there adduced, and the erroneous impressions of the deluded envoy. The intelligence from KBndahh, so frequently cited, was from the communications of one Miihomed Tfiir, a eervant to Mohan L31, and thew were, clearly enough, written at the dictation of Meher Dil K h h himself, to " rouse the mind of Sekander Burnes." The com- munication, enclosure No. 28, dated 19th July, 1838, is from a Frenchman named Carron, in K&bal. The sad manner in which Captain Burnes misre- presented facts, I cannot better show than by dlu- sion to No. 13, a letter to Mr. Macnaghten, page 14, in which my name happens to be mentioned.

480 CAPTAIN BURNW AND VEKTAVICH.

He states that he has more grounds for believing that Captain ~ektavich, the Russian agent at KAbal, is charged with letters for Runjeet Singh, &c., &c. " In the course of yesterday, Mr. Mssson waa informed that the Russian agent had letters for the Mihdriij6h, and the purport of them was to the effect, that if his highness did not withdraw from Peshiwer, the Russian government would compel him." Now I never was informed that Vektavich had letters for Ranjit Singh, but I was informed that, at the amir's request, he 'was going to write letters ; and that Captain Burnes knew more than this may be doubted from the follow- ing note to me. '' V- has agreed to write to Bunjeet Sing and tell him the amh is under R----n protection, also to Allttrd !" I, moreover, a t the time remarked to him, why should not Vektavich write? what does he care to whom he writes, or what he writes ? certainly attaching no importance to anything he wrote. I was, therefore, surprised to find my authority quoted in his letter. I have another singular note, with respect to Vektavich, which may be worth while giving, as exemplifying the plan on which Captain Burnes fed the alarm of the government. H e had just seen the amir; and writes, " I will tell you all when we meet, but the most astounding intelligence I had given me by him on the Russian's authority was, that Russia had sent four thousand men to the east of the Cas- pian, to keep the Toorkmans in check while the

DEPARTURE OF VEKTAVICH. 48 1

shLh attacked Herat." This report went to govern- ment without any remark that it was utterly un- founded. That it must be false I pointed out, saying that Vektavich was sent to tell lies, that he kept himself in Kibal by telling lies ; still i t was more than pity that Captain Burnes should be deceived, or that he should lend himself to deceive the government. On fifty occasions I had to protest against the delusive intelligence he for- warded without explanation ; his excuse, indeed, was that he merely sent reports as he received them, and was not responsible for their truth; yet on some of these very items of intelligence, which the most arrant blockhead in Kibal would have rejected as fallacious, and which no one, I venture to say, would have dared to make to me, a govern- ment of India and a British ministry justify the monstrous policy they followed, nor feel ashamed to impose them upon the ignorance of a British parliament, and to stultify the nation as to the character of their wanton proceedings !

W e left Vektavich in Kibal. I had always thought his object was merely to see what Captain Burnes was doing- that he achieved more was owing to the folly of Captain Burnes himselE As soon as the mission disappeared, Vektavich Sad no *ger a motive in staying, and he thought of re- turning, which, luckily for him, the arrival of Meher Dil Khin from K h d a h b enabled him to do. Dost

Miihomed K h h asked him for the money he had VOL. 111. 2 I

482 AFGHAN ENVOY AND PERSIAN AMBASSADOR.

promised; he very properly replied he was no banker who carried money about with him ;-that the am'rr must send his envoys with him to the Persian camp where they would get it. Had not the K h - ' dahir SirdG been at Khbal, the chance was that Vektavich might in reality have had his throat cut. As i t was the amb despatched one AbG Khb, Biirak Zai, with Vektavich, and he, as will be seen in enclosure No. 38, page 32 of the Corre- spondence, accompanied him to Khdahiir, and then " disappeared." In the same enclosure, No. 38, the name of Hhji HGss6n Ali K h h figures as the Persian ambassador ; this was the same man who at Calcutta presented forged credentials h m Doet Mgbomed K h b . Do governments deserve con- tempt or pity for being influenced by the move- ments of such impcwtors and scoundrels?

CHAPTER XX.

Progress to PeUwer.--Captain Burnea eummoned to Lahore.- Letter of Captain Burnee.- Reply of government.- Uneatis- factory employment.-Letters of Captain Burnen.-Letter of Mr. Mscnaghten.-My recammendationr-Plane of the govern- ment.- Their development.- Mr. Macnaghten volunteers hie services.-Hie career and fate.-Jew.- Dr. Lord's Russian spy. - Captain Burnee' representations to Lord Auckland-Mr. Colvin's note.-My submiseion.-Offensive communications.- Resignation of 8ervice.-Excureion. - Journey to Lahore and Ferozp6r.-Passage down the river.-Mr. Macnaghten's letter. -Interview with Sir Alexander Burneh-Lord Auckland's offers.- Captain Burnes' insincerity.- Dr. lord'^ account.- Sir Alexander Burnee' account.- Application of Mr. Macnagh- ten.-Squabbles.-Conclmion.

FROM KAbal we were escorted to Jeliilabsd by Nbiir Ali Miihomed, and thence on j&lw, or floats, we descended the river to Peshiiwer. Here we were soon after joined by the KGndGz party, and Captain Burnes received orders to proceed to an interview with Mr. Secretary Macnaghten, deputed on a mission to Miihiiriijii Raqjit Singh. I t may have been collectd that I was by no means satis- . fied with the relation in which I stood to the governmeat of India-indeed, on the arrival of Cap-

1 2

484 LFITER OF CAPTAIN BURNES.

tain Burnes at Kabal, I represented to him that I thought there was no longer occasion for me t o con- tinue in hopeless and unprofitable employment. He, however, had addressed a letter to government which I may be excused inserting, and prayed me to await the result.

l1 Cubool, 9th October, 1857. *' SIR,

" Before proceeding further with my communica- tions on the state of affiirs in this quarter, I feel i t a duty incumbent on me to report, for the informa- tion of the Right Honourable the Governor-general in Council, the great aid and cordial assistance which I have derived from Mr. Masson, not only since my arrival here, but from his constant corre- spondence since I left Bombay.

" If I shall be fortunate enough to merit the approbation of his lordship in council, for what may be accomplished here, I feel that I shall owe much t o Mr. Masson, whose high literary attainments, long residence in this county, and accurate know- ledge of people and events, afford me, at every step, the means of coming to a judgment more cor- rect than, in an abrupt transition to Cabool, I could have possibly formed.

" I discharge, therefore, a pleasing task, in ac- knowledging the assistance which I receive from Mr. Masson, and while I do so, it is also my duty t o state, that I by no nieans wish the Right Honour-

GOVERNMENT REPLY. 486

able the Governor-general in council, to consider Mr. Masson as responsible for the opinions and views which I may take up and report to govern- ment.

" I have the honour to be, sir, " Your most obedient humble servant,

Signed, " ALEX. BURNES. " On a mission to Cabool."

#' To W. H. M'Naghten, Eaq. Secretary to the Government of India, Fort William."

This letter was noticed in a despatch from the secretary, not to Captain Burnes, but to Captain Wade, in the following manner :-

" The Governor-general has derived much satis- faction from the high testimony borne by yourself and Captain Burnes, to the praiseworthy manner in which Mr. Masson has conducted the duties en- t.rusted to him, and Captain Burnes will be requested to furnish to him copies of your letters, and to inti- mate to that gentleman the high sense which is entertained by the Governor-general of his faithful and valuable services."

As Captain Burnes was now alone, and it was easy to foresee the mission would be involved in difficulties, I judged it delicate to remain with him until i t was brought to an end, otherwise I certainly should have forwarded my resignation at thig time. Now that we had reached Pesh6wer I again brought the mat- ter to Captain Burnes' notice, and he again prayed

486 ANXIETY OF CAPTAIN BURNES.

me to stay there, while he would represent my case to Lord Auckland at Simla, and settle everything, so that I should be compelled t o be satisfied. I consented to remain at Peshiiwer, because I had no wish to see any persons belonging to the govern- ment, for my opinions of many of them had long been made up ; I also well knew that there were difficulties which Captain Burnes, perhaps, did not foresee, but which I suspected were not to be got over; moreover I had determined on the course to adopt, simply that of advancing no pretensions, but if still neglected, and kept in a position where I could not be useful, to clear myself from embarrase- ment by quitting a service which had long been dis- agreeable to me, and which I - felt to be dishonour- able besides.

Captain Burnes had reasonable anxiety that his conduct in the late mission might be called into question. The French officers at Peshiiwer also ex- pressed solicitude for him. H e was soon relieved from any apprehension on that account.

In a letter from Hhssan Avda of 2nd of June, 1838, he enclosed me one from Mr. Macnaghten, and wrote, '' I suppose i t is a counterpart of my own to ascertain your sentiments of what is to be done to counteract the policy of Dost Mihomed K h h . They shall have my sentiments sharp enough, ,and as for Sikh rule in Cabool it will never do. What theirs 'are I do not know, but you may guess from Wade's note to me which I enclose. It is unique--

Why he infers you were to stay at Peehiiwer I know not."

On the 4th, or two days after, he wrote from Mwal Pin&-" They wish to have all our opinions, but their determination to act is clear. I have a letter by Lord Auckland's desire from Mr. Colvin this morning, telling me to repair to Adeena-nag- gar, where I shall be fully and confidentially in- formed of his lordship's views in the present crisis. I am also told, that ' the Governor-general is quite sa- tisfied that you have done all that could be done to ensure success at Cabool, notwithstanding the failure of our negotiations.' He (his lordship) is perfectly assured also, that you will now apply yourself to the fulfilment of any new part that may be assigned to you with the same assiduity and ardent zeal which you have always manifested in the discharge of public duty.-My ir~erence from call this M that S F Shooja is imnaediatei?y to be put fomoard."

The letter of Mr. Macnaghten is much too curious to be omitted, Captain Wade's unique note I regret to have lost, or perhaps I returned it.

a Camp in the Panjib, May 23, 1838.

" MY DEAR SIR, " You will have heard that I am proceeding on

a mission to Runjeet Singh ; and as at my interview with his highness it is probable that the question of his relations with the A f g h h will come on the tupis, I am naturally desirous of obtaining the

488 MACNAGHTEN'S IGNORANCE AS TO HIS MISSION.

opinion of the best-informed men with respect to them. Would you oblige me, therefore, by stating what means of counteraction to the policy of Dost Miihomed KhAn you would recommend for adop tion, and whether you think that the Sikhs, using any (and what 1 ) instrument of A f g h h agency, could establish themselves in Caboul. 'In giving your opi- nion as to what should be done in the present crisis, you mill not, of course, view the question as one affecting the Sikhs and Afghrlns alone, but as one n~aterially connected with our own interests. I should be glad to be favoured with your reply as soon as convenient. Perhaps you had better direct it to the care of Captains Wade or Burnes, in the camp of the Miihtirhjih.

" I am, my dear sir, " Very truly yours

Signed, W. H. MACNAGEITEN." " To C. Masson, Esq."

Mr. Macnaghten as before noted, had been de- puted on a mission. I t might be supposed from this letter that be did not know why he had been de- puted, or farther than he was sent to arrange some- thing, whatever it might be, at his own discretion. Lord Auckland's missions seem to have been much of the same character.

In reply to Mr. Macnaghten, I deprecated the extravagant notion of establishing the Sikhs in

GOVERNMENT SCHEMES. 489

KBbal, and as the lesser evil recommended the establishment of ShAh SGjah a1 MGlkh, aware that the government had determined upon action of some kind, and never dreaming that an army of twenty thousand men was to be employed to effect an object which could have been readily accom- plished without a British soldier, simply by sending the Shkh to Peshiiwer under a proper understanding with the M&&iij.jb.

That government a t this time contemplated no employment of its arms, n subsequent letter from Captain Burnes of 21st of June, may perhaps show. I t was from Lahore, after he had seen Mr. Mac- naghten. " Public affairs here are in an advanced state, and I consider our relations with the Panjab on the verge of being materially altered, and Shooja ool Moolk close on ascending the throne of his ancestors. You may remember the treaty between the Shih and Runjeet. That is the base of every- thing, and it only now remains to be ~e t t led whether he is to go by Peshawer or by Candahar to his throne. A son a t Peshawer to demonstrate there, and the Shah himself at Shikarpore seems the favoured scheme here, but this is not yet settled. The Shah is to have an agent on our part with him, English officers and English money; but it is not yet settled if he is to have any of our troops. I am clear for a regiment or two ; but there seems to be some fear of objections to the thing on the part of

490 THE EXPEDITION DETERMINED UPON.

Runjeet Sing. The treaty to be formed is tri- partite, and the Sinde mange is to be squeezed. How much I know not, but very much I hope."

In the same letter Captain Burnes wrote, " I have had the satisfaction of ,being told that I was sent to do impossible things at Cabool, so all my labour that did not succeed was not expected to succeed ! Politics are a queer science."

In a very short time it became developed that a large armament was to accompany the Sh&, and Sir Henry Fane was'flattered with having the direc- tion of it, while Captain Burnes was soothed with the notion of being associated with his excellency as commissioner. Councils of all kinds were held at Simla, until the expedition was fairly determined upon, when Mr. Secretary Macnaghten volunteered his services for the occasion on the ground that Captain Burnes could hardly be depended 'upon in so important an affair. This was no doubt true, although the unfortunate secretary was the last man in India who should have put himself forward. H e saw I fear the opportunity of gratifying his ambi- tion and vanity, and either over-estimated his abi- lity or fancied that he had an easy task before him. The retreat of the Persians from Heriit, in finct, had rendered an expedition unnecessary ; but the army had been assembled, the appointments had been made, and it was necessary the new envoy and minister should parade through Afghhisth. I need not allude to the subsequent career of that

THE SUPPOSED RUSSIAN SPY. 49 1

functionary or to his miserable end. It would tempt one to exclaim,

" Grand Dieu ! tes jugements sont pleins d'equitk."

I remained a t Peshiiwer throughout the hot and rainy seasons, in a bad state of health. Major Tod passed through on his journey from Heriit to Simla, and with him came t.he Jew described by Dr. Lord as a Russian spy, and who of course appro- priately appears in the A f g h b correspondence, pages 18 and 21. This man lived the few days he stayed at Peshbwer at my quarters. A pedlar by trade, he and his visitors were so noisy in making their bargains that I was obliged on account of my head to have him removed to the opposite side of the garden. He had a plan of Jerusalem with him and I should judge was not perfectly sane. That such a man could be conceived a Russian spy was certainly ridiculous. H e went towards Kbhmir with a kkfila and I gave him five or ten rupees to help him on his journey. The French officers assisted him in like manner. When Captain Burnes saw Lord Auck- land a t Simla he copversed with him on my affairs, and reported to me the substance of his lordship's remarks. They were unmeaning enough, but stated my services were too valuable t.o be dispensed with, while omitting to do what would be only just to place me in a fair position. Captain Burnes also stated my claims to wistant's allowances during the Kibal mission. His lordship admitted they were

valid, but said the benefit had better be prospective. Captain Burnes when apprising me of all this sent me a note from Mr. Colvin to himself, which as he said would explain itself. " You may write to Mr. Masson to say that Lord Auckland is r e d y sen- sible of his merits, and would wish to consult his convenience and feelings as much as he with pro- priety can. While the present crisis lasts, his services are too valuable to his country to admit of his being detached to a distance. He will remain, probably, so long as the rains last at Peshiiwer, but when the Shih proceeds in force towards ShikiirpGr he will have to move down to that quarter to join the principal political officer employed. When the object of the expedition shall have been attained, Lord Auckland will gladly consider what arrange- ment can be made so as best to meet his views."

Most assuredly this communication did not sa- tisfy me, for it settled nothing ; however, I offered no opposition, and expressed to Captain Burnes tbat I was content to go on-resting on the assurance he had given me that Dr. Lord, who had been appointed to proceed to Peshiiwer, was coming to relieve me. I had scarcely signified my consent, when I received rr letter from Mr. Secretary Mac- naghten, directing me to forward my correspond- ence, under cover to Captain Wade. This might have surprised me for more than one reason, but I had soon more cause for surprise in another let- ter from Mr. Macnqhten, informing me of Dr.

MY RESIGPU'ATION. 403

Lord's mission, and calling upon me to afford him every aid in my power.

I now found that i t was Mr. Macnaghten's pleasure that I should remain a t Peshiiwer, and that he had set aside the decision of Lord Auckland and ' the private secretary. I now felt privileged to follow my own inclinations ; I, there- fore, awaited the arrival of Dr. Lord, and did as- sist him as far aa information and counsel could as- sist such a m a n - a n d then forwarded my resignation to government, in a manner that it might be known I was in earnest. Released from the thraldom in which I had been kept since 1836, I then made an excursion to Shih Bliz Ghari in the Yusef Zai districts, to recover some Bactro-pdli inscriptions on ti rock there, and was successful, returning with both copies and impres~ions on calico. From Pe- sh6wer I next crossed the Induq and proceeded to Lahore, from whence I reached FerozpGr on the same day that Lord Auckland crossed the Satlej on a visit to h n j i t Singh. I had the satisfaction to be again amongst my countrymen in the British camp, where I remained until it broke up, and the army marched towards BahlwalpGr and Smd, when I sailed down the river in the fleet with Sir Henry Fane.

While at FerozpGr, I would on no consideration see any of the politicals, for I was abundantly sur- feited with them. IIowever, when there I received the official acceptance of my resignation, which E

introduce here because it has been lat terly put forth that I was dismissed the service. I did not take the trouble to contradict the falsehood, - it was unnecessary.

(Pol. Dept.)

" SIR,

" I am desired by the Right Honourable the Governor-general of India, to acknowledge the receipt of your letter dated the 16th ultimo, ten- dering your resignation of the service of the go- vernment of India.

" In reply, I am directed to acquaint yon, that in compliance with your wish, the Governor- general has been pleased to accept your resigna- tion.

" I have the honour to be, " Sir,

" Your most obedient humble servant, u S d . W. H. MACNAQHTEN." Secretary to Governor of India,

with the Gov.genera1. Camp, at Ferozepore, the

30th November, 1838.

After passing BahBwalpGr, where Sir Henry Fane had an interview with BahAwal KMn, we reached the frontier of Sind, where I again saw Sir Alex- ander Burnea. He informed me that Mr. Colvin

LORD AUCKLAND OVER-RULED. 496

had written to him at Lord Auckland's request, to use his influence with me to remain in the ser- vice, and to offer me my own terms. Mr. Colvin's letter had been sent to Sir John Keane, therefore I did not see it. I had much conversation with Sir Alexander Burnea, and, observing that he had be- come fully acquainted with my views, he promised to frame a letter to Mr. Colvin, which he would send for my approval. W e had also much discourse on the state of afkirs. I had previously learned from Dr. Lord a strange account of the mode in which the ami& Lord Anckland had been driven into measures which hie better judgment diesp- proved, and how he was obliged to yield to the assaults of certain females, aides-de-camp and se- cretaries ; and now I questioned Sir Alexander on the part he had taken, particularly as regarded the useless expedition. He replied that it was ar- ranged before he reached Simla, and that when he arrived Tom118 and Colvin came running to him and prayed him to say nothing to unsettle his lord- ship; that they had all the trouble in the world to get him into the business, and that even now he would be glad of any pretence to retire from it.

Sir Alexander Burnes sent me his proposed let- ter to Mr. Colvin, and I was compelled to regret in return, that I had given him the trouble to write it.

At Bakkar I learned from Sir Alexander Burnes, that Mr. Macnaghten, who had reached ShikibpGr,

496 ARRIVAL IN SIND.

finding himself entirely at fault, had written to him to send me over directly. Sir Alexander spared me any trouble on this occasion, for he answered the envoy and minister, and without my knowledge. There were sad squabbles here between these two leading politicals, and I was very well pleased to have nothing to do with either of them.

I accompanied Sir Henry Fane to the mouth of the Indus, where he found a vessel to take him on to Bombay, and I returned to Tatta, for the purpose of seeing Colonel, now Sir Henry Pottinger. With this gentleman I forwarded to England a work, the appearance of wliich was in some manner prevented. In an altered form I now submit i t to the public, reserving the portion on subjects, unno- ticed in these volumes, it may be, for future publi- cation.

THE END.

London : Printed by 8. k 1. Bentlq, W h , d Rq,

Bagor H o w , Shoe Lane.